Did You Know That The Colors Of Different Foods Hint At Beneficial Constituents?
Foods of all kinds come in a myriad of colors. For example, vegetables are commonly associated with the color green while fruits come in more exciting hues. Scientists say that these colors hold more significance to human health as the presence of phytonutrients causes them. Read on for a detailed outline of phytonutrients, their benefits, and where they can be found — with this, a mere peek at different fruits at your grocers can help you determine their health benefits!
It is commonly advised that fruits and vegetables should be incorporated into every meal of the day because they contain many nutrients and are beneficial to human health.
Most people don't hear that they should ensure that the veggies and fruits on their plates should be of different colors. That is not for aesthetic purposes but to obtain the numerous phytonutrients that make up these colors.
Phytonutrients contain different antioxidants that are known for how they uniquely benefit health. Below is a detailed listing of different phytonutrients and what veggies and fruits contain them. Enjoy!
1. White Phytonutrients:
White phytonutrients can help you lower your cholesterol levels, thus promoting the health of your heart.
They can be found in:
- Garlic
- White onions
- Cauliflower
- Pears
2. Green Phytonutrients:
These are grossly found in leafy vegetables; the phytonutrient can help you maintain healthy eyesight and preserve the strength of your bones and teeth.
Green phytonutrients can be found in:
- Greens
- Spinach
- Broccoli
- Kiwis
3. Red Phytonutrients:
Much like the color hints at, these are highly beneficial to the health of your heart and circulatory system. They are also great at helping you maintain memory functions and a healthy urinary tract.
Red phytonutrients can be found in:
- Watermelon
- Apples
- Grapefruit
- Red bell pepper
- Tomatoes
4. Yellow/Orange Phytonutrients:
Helps sustain a healthy immune system and proper vision health
These can be found in:
- Carrots
- Oranges
- Lemons
- Pumpkins
5. Purple Phytonutrients:
The most critical function of purple phytonutrients is that they promote healthy aging. Like red phytonutrients, they are also beneficial to mental health and urinary tract health.
They can be found in:
- Eggplant
- Purple carrots
- Blueberries
- Grapes
This list is not exhaustive, but now you know that the next time you visit the grocers, you should choose fruits and veggies of different colors. This may even encourage you to try out some exotic fruits you've never had before.
Remember, your meal isn't complete without fruits and vegetables!
