Have you ever heard the tip, “Eat the rainbow?” We’re not talking about Skittles, M&Ms, and other artificially flavored foods. This tip refers to the fact that our bodies thrive on a rainbow (think colored variety) of nutrients. Fruits and vegetables supply a variety of vitamins and minerals to the diet and are sources of phytochemicals that act as antioxidants. Eating a diverse range of colorful foods can be an easy way to help supply your body with the nutrients it needs to develop and grow.
The varied, balanced diet supported by fruits and vegetables gives your body the nutrition it needs to work properly and fight against diseases and illnesses. No matter your age, remembering to “eat the rainbow” is a healthy reminder to add diversity to your diet.
What Happens to Your Body When You Eat Fruits and Vegetables
Here are a few examples of what science says to expect when you eat enough fruits and vegetables:
- Lower risk of heart disease: the fiber in fruits and vegetables helps block the reabsorption of cholesterol and can help lower blood cholesterol levels.
- Lower risk of stroke: potassium found in fruits and vegetables helps to lower blood pressure by coaxing water out of cells.
- Improved brain function: fruits and vegetables contain B vitamins, vitamin C, carotenoids, polyphenols, and fiber-rich carbs which research has linked to better brain function.
- Reduced risk of certain cancers: Fruits and vegetables contain natural substances (antioxidants) that have cancer-protective properties. They may protect against cancer of the bowel, mouth, throat, stomach, and lungs.
- Helps maintain a healthy weight: a healthy body weight can be easily maintained with a good source of fruits and vegetables. This is because these foods are low in calories and high in fiber, helping us feel full and want to eat less.
Why Color Matters
The colors in fruits and vegetables are created by specific phytonutrients, natural compounds that give plants their rich colors, tastes, and aromas. Phytonutrients also strengthen a plant’s immune system, protecting the plant from diseases. This means that when we eat plant food, phytonutrients can help protect us from chronic diseases and keep our bodies working as they should. With phytonutrients, fruits and vegetables may also be protective against certain types of cancer.
How to Get Enough Color
Summer may mean lots of fresh fruit on the table and the upcoming Thanksgiving holiday may help bring a wide spread of veggies to your plate. However, chances are, you may not be getting the recommended daily amount of fruits and vegetables all year long. In fact, nine in ten Americans don’t. Depending on age and sex, the CDC’s dietary guidelines recommend that adults eat at least 1.5-2 cups of fruit per day and 2-3 cups of vegetables per day.
So, where do you get started ensuring you are reaching that recommended level? Try to include as many plant-based colors in your diet (both main meals and snacks). A balance of colors is important because each color provides a unique health benefit. A notable tip is that the colorful skins of your foods contain the richest source of phytonutrients, so avoid peeling your apples and eggplants.
Reaching approximately 4.5 cups of fruits and vegetables a day may seem difficult, but with these tips, you’ll achieve a balanced, colored diet:
- Think in twos: Two servings in the morning, two in the afternoon, and two in the evening.
- Shop local: Explore your local farmer’s market for new ways to prepare and add fresh fruits and vegetables to your plate.
- All meals matter: This means snacks too! Try replacing that handful of chips in the afternoon with a green smoothie or some sliced raw vegetables.
- Shop frozen produce: While fruits and vegetables are best to eat when in season, frozen produce still counts and is just as nutritious as fresh.
- Dine out colorfully: A cup of vegetable soup, a side salad, and some fresh fruit for dessert can be great colorful additions to your plate on a night out.
Breaking down the Rainbow
What does each color add to your diet? Below is a breakdown of fruits and vegetables sorted by color with the phytonutrients they contain and which foods you’ll find them in.
Red: contains anti-inflammatory properties and is an important source of lycopene which may protect against some cancers as well as heart and lung disease.
Found in: strawberries, apples, cranberries, raspberries, tomatoes, cherries, beets, watermelon, red peppers, red onions, red grapes, and pomegranates.
Orange and yellow: contains antioxidants for fat-soluble tissue, a great source of vitamin C, A, and potassium, boosts the immune system, and enhances vision.
Found in: bananas, pineapple, carrots, sweet potatoes, yellow squash, yellow peppers, oranges, mango, pumpkin, corn, cantaloupe, and apricots.
Green: plays a role in healthy circulation, maintains vision health, and strong bones and teeth. The phytonutrients in green foods also have a high concentration of fiber and contain cancer-blocking chemicals that inhibit the action of carcinogens (cancer-causing compounds).
Found in: spinach, kale, cabbage, brussels sprouts, asparagus, kiwi, avocados, collard greens, green tea, and green herbs.
Blue and purple: contain powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins that may delay cellular aging and block the formation of blood clots.
Found in: blueberries, purple grapes, raisins, eggplant, plums, figs, and prunes.
Let Nova Vita Help You Reach a Balanced Diet
The more color and variety in your fruit and veggie intake the better. If you are unsure if you are absorbing nutrients from your diet and supplementation, Nova Vita Wellness Centers offer whole body lab panels as well as micronutrient lab panels to identify deficiencies. Our IV vitamin infusions and boosters will help replenish low or lost nutrients. Nova Vita Wellness Centers healthcare professionals are excited to meet you and discuss your health goals as well as how our customized wellness solutions can guide you down a path to well-being. All of our services are backed by science and we will help you choose the best solution for your health needs. Contact us today to get started on your journey to a healthier and happier you.
