Eating The Rainbow: Benefits and Food Sources
Sorry to burst your bubble... but we're not talking about Skittles here!
Colorful fruits and veggies have enormous health benefits (both physically and mentally), plus, how fun is a colorful plate at meal time?!
The benefits of eating the rainbow of fruits and veggies are due to phytochemicals found naturally within these foods. Phytochemicals also give foods their distinct aroma and taste.
Let’s dive into how each color can benefit you:
Reds:
Improves heart health
Decreases prostate and breast cancer
Contributes to stroke prevention
Increases brain function
Lowers Blood Pressure
Sources:
Tomatoes
Beets
Radishes
Cherries
Strawberries
Red onions
Red peppers
Oranges and Yellows:
Reduce risk of heart disease and inflammation
Strengthen immune system
Builds healthy skin
Increases brain function
Sources:
Carrots
Winter squash
Apricots
Yellow peppers
Sweet potatoes
Bananas
Pineapple
Mangoes
Pumpkins
Peaches
Oranges
Greens:
Prevents certain cancers
Supports immune system function
Improves digestion
Improves liver function
Strengthens teeth and bones
Supports eye health
Sources:
Spinach
Arugula
Broccoli
Brussel sprouts
Avocados
Kiwis
Green tea
Asparagus
Fresh green herbs
Kale
Artichokes
Blues and Purples:
Improved brain health
Improved memory and cognition
Lower blood pressure
Reduce the risk of stroke
Reduce the risk of heart disease
Supports urinary tract health
Sources:
Blueberries
Blackberries
Eggplant
Figs
Purple cabbage
Concord grapes
Plums
Whites and Browns:
Anti-tumor properties
Reduce cholesterol
Lower blood pressure
Improve bone strength
Decrease risk of stomach cancer
Sources:
Onions
Mushrooms
Cauliflower
Garlic
Leeks
Not only Is eating the rainbow healthy, but it’s fun too!Give it a try for yourself!
-Jada Butler
