Purple is the new green when it comes to your health. I am Kathleen Raskin of Las Vegas, and here at my website Kathey Jo’s Kitchen, we delve into why purple foods like acai berries are making a splash in the health and wellness community today. The deep violet color points toward a high concentration of antioxidants.
You should already be incorporating fruits and vegetables into your diet because they fight disease, are good for your heart, keep you looking younger, and reduce inflammation. But, try these purple foods for an extra punch of healthiness.
What Are Anthocyanins and Why Should I Care?
Anthocyanins are antioxidants, meaning they’ll help fight against memory impairment. You’ll find adding purple to your diet will increased these flavonoids. Your liver benefits, because studies have shown that liver damage induced by alcohol was decreased. The consumption of black rice was found to inhibit cholesterol absorption. A high intake of anthocyanin relates to a reduced risk of heart attack in young and middle-aged women.
I’m a Picky Eater. How Can I Incorporate More Purple Foods?
You have a lot of options when it comes to purple foods. Try a specialty organic food boutique, or your local farmer’s market to take advantage of the seasonal availability of these delicious and healthy foods. Remember, the deeper the color, the more nutrients it contains. This goes for all the colors in the rainbow: orange, yellow, green, and everything in between!
Some fruit options include bilberries, blackberries, blueberries, cherries, chokeberries, concord grapes, cranberries, dried plums, elderberries, figs, grapes, passion fruit, plums, pomegranates, and raisins.
You’ve got vegetable and grain like asparagus, Belgian endive, cabbage, carrots, cauliflower, cereal, corn, eggplant, kale, olives, onions, peppers, sweet potatoes, black rice, royal burgundy string beans, and wheat to choose from.
Do you have a favorite purple food? Let me – Kathleen Raskin – know in the comments below!
