Blue/purple fruits and vegetables, including favorites like cranberries, purple grapes, raisins, and eggplant, boost urinary tract health and memory function.
Fruits and vegetables get their coloration from phytochemicals and natural bioactive compounds which, in addition to giving many fruits and veggies their eye-catching hues, promote good health.
The most vibrantly colored fruits and vegetables are the richest in vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants.
As a general rule, darker-colored foods have a higher phytonutrient content. According to information from Oregon State University, Stanford Medicine, and McManus' Harvard Health post, here's an outline of some color-based benefits:
Red plants contain carotenoids such as lycopene that may protect against heart and lung disease and certain types of cancers such as prostate. (For example: tomatoes, apples, beets, strawberries.)
Purple and blue produce contain anthocyanins, which may help slow aging in our bodies, prevent blood clots, protect against heart disease, and fight inflammation and allergies. (For example: plums, prunes, eggplant, blueberries, blackberries.)
Yellow and orange fruits and veggies contain carotenoids such as cryptoxanthin which may promote vision function, reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease, and more. (For example: carrots, oranges, cantaloupe, sweet potatoes.)
Green plants contain sulforaphane, isothiocyanate, and indoles that may destroy cancer-causing chemicals. (For example: broccoli, bok choy, kale, Brussels sprouts.)
White and brown, flavorful favorites, specifically onion and garlic, contain allicin, which may block certain toxins or bacteria.
These include whole grains containing fiber, B vitamins, and minerals such as magnesium.
It is also recommended that don't neglect beige foods including rice and other grains.
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