Posted by Charli Mace on 1/24/2012

Most people try to eat healthy food and take vitamins to insure that they are taking care of their bodies. Did you know that eating a rainbow of colors every day is one of the best ways to help our bodies?

Fruits and vegetables come in different colors; red, orange, yellow, green , blue and purple. Each fruit pigment is an indicator of what health benefits it has for our body.

Fruits and vegetables that are red like tomatoes, strawberries and radishes contain lycopene or anthocyanin which are powerful antioxidants that protect our cells from damage.

Yellow and orange fruits and vegetables such as sweet potatoes, carrots and peaches contain carotenoids like beta-carotene which helps maintain healthy membranes and eyes. They have also been linked to improved immune system function and reduced risk of heart disease and cancer.

Fruits that are green such as spinach, kiwi and broccoli contain lutein and foliate which help keep eyes healthy, protect against cancer and reduce the risk of birth defects.

Purple and blue fruits such as blueberries, eggplant and plums contain anthocyanin which are powerful antioxidants. They have also been linked with improved memory and healthy aging.

The best way to help our body get all the nutrients it needs to stay healthy is to eat a rainbow of colors. Have a colorful salad or fruit salad and your body will thank you.

Enjoy! Charli