The Power of Purple

For optimum health we should "eat the rainbow".  Purple veggies and fruits are not very commonly consumed.  Generally, the more colorful the fruit of veggie, the more nutrients it contains.  And also more cancer-fighting properties and antioxidants.  Purple foods contain antioxidant nutrients called anthocyanins, resveratrol and polyphenols which give them their deep color but also protects against cell damage. Antioxidants are substances that help the body fight against damaging, unstable molecules called free radicals.  These molecules are formed during digestion, exercise, stress and exposure to environmental pollution and chemicals.  These must be neutralized quickly, because the cellular level damage lead to disease and premature aging.

  

Here are 6 benefits from purple fruits and veggies:

*Reduces the risks of Alzheimer's disease. 

*Boosts memory.

*Protects cells from damage.

*Helps fight inflammation.

*Promotes longevity.

*Reduces the risk of cancer and slows the progression of cancer.

Here are several purple foods to add to your diet: 

Purple cabbage

Beets

Purple potatoes

Purple cauliflower

Acai berries

Purple carrots 

Eggplant

Blackberries

Kohlrabi

Red lettuce

Purple grapes

Figs

The best way to maximize the benefits of these is to eat a wide variety each day.  Try to get one purple fruit or veggie each day.  Eat a combination of cooked and raw because some nutrients are better absorbed when cooked, while others raw.  Try to consume those that are in season, ex: berries in the summer, while cauliflower and cabbage in fall/winter.. Remember sometimes frozen can be better then fresh.

Have a great week.

Be kind.

Judd