Colorful Produce
The array of colors in the produce department makes it one of the most beautiful departments in the grocery store. Look around, you will see reds, purples, oranges, yellows and greens. The different colors are not only eye appealing, but play an important part in our health. A way to insure you’re getting a variety of nutrients is to eat a variety of color. The darker the color of your fruit or vegetable, the more beneficial nutrients it will have.
Purple, red and blue vegetables contain an antioxidant called anthocyanin. Anthocyanin aids in preventing cancer and reducing the oxidation of LDL cholesterol, promoting a healthy heart.
Dark green vegetables are known for being a good source of vitamin K, which aids in clotting of the blood. Dark green vegetables are also a source of a carotenoid, lutein. Lutein reduces the risk of colon, breast, lung and skin cancer as well as protects the eyes from oxidation.
We know that eating too many carrots will result in orange skin; this is because of the β-carotenes. β-carotenes are found in red and orange fruits and vegetables, like pumpkin, carrots and butternut squash. β-carotenes neutralize free radicals and boost antioxidant defense.
Published 08/17/11
