In 1826, Anthelme Brillat-Savarin, an early proponent of a low-carbohydrate diet, wrote in his book "The Physiology of Taste": " Tell me what you eat, and I will tell you what you are." Over the years, that turned into the saying, "You are what you eat," pointing out the importance of a healthy diet for overall health and fitness. One dietary approach that has gained momentum in recent years is incorporating colorful vegetables into our meals to boost health. Colorful fruits and vegetables play a vital role in healthy diets, thanks to phytonutrients—compounds responsible for vibrant colors, unique tastes, and plant aromas. These phytonutrients not only contribute to the plant's resilience and immune system but also offer many benefits for our overall health.  

The Spectrum of Nutrients

Regarding fruits and vegetables, each color of the spectrum has its unique vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. Epidemiological research suggests that diets rich in fruits and vegetables reduce the risk of many chronic diseases, including cardiovascular diseases and cancer. When we consume plant-based food, phytonutrients behave like guards that protect us from chronic diseases. So, let's explore the connection between the colors of veggies and their health benefits.  

White and Brown

The onion family of onion, garlic, and leeks, along with cauliflower, mushrooms, and parsnip, contains anti-tumor properties.  Additionally, this group contains antioxidant flavonoids such as quercetin, which kill cancer cells, control blood sugar, and help prevent heart disease. Quercetin has many benefits for the skin because of its skin-soothing and anti-inflammatory activity. It has a restorative effect that stimulates repair in damaged or irritated skin.  

Red

Red fruits and vegetables, ranging from strawberries, cranberries, raspberries, cherries, beets, and watermelon to red grapes, red peppers, and red onion, are packed with carotenoid lycopene, benefiting bone health. This potent antioxidant may also help to protect against heart disease and specific forms of cancer. Strawberries offer vitamin C for skin health and immune support, and cranberries may help prevent urinary tract infections. Watermelon keeps you hydrated and provides essential vitamins, while red onions have anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects.   

Orange and Yellow

Orange and yellow fruits and vegetables, ranging from oranges, bananas, pineapple, and peaches to carrots, sweet potatoes, and pumpkins, offer a variety of flavors and health benefits. These colorful choices are packed with beta-cryptothanxin, which helps in cell-to-cell communication and helps to prevent heart disease.  Oranges provide vitamin C for the immune system, bananas offer potassium for heart health, pineapples contain bromelain for digestion, and peaches supply vitamins A and C for eye health and the immune system.  

Green

The famous greens such as avocados, broccoli, spinach, kale, and kiwi each offer distinctive tastes and a treasure trove of health benefits. Leafy greens with compounds like sulforaphane, isothiocyanates, and indoles, which inhibit the activity of carcinogens, reduce the risk of cancer. Each green option brings unique health benefits, from healthy fats in avocados to the nutrient powerhouse of kale and the vitamin-rich kiwi. Incorporating these green foods into your diet supports overall well-being and reduces the risk of chronic diseases.  

Blue and Purple

Blueberries, plums, figs, purple cabbage, eggplants, blackberries, and many more fruits and vegetables contain potent antioxidants known as anthocyanins that have many health benefits. These include helping lowering blood pressure and reducing the risk of heart disease. Research has also shown that anthocyanins can help protect and improve brain function and help prevent neurological disorders, making these colorful options excellent additions to a healthy diet.   So, when planning your next meal, let your plate not only serve your taste buds but also support the overall body health. From white all the way to purple, each color group has its own nutrients and benefits.