Break away from the American tendency to eat brown and white. Meat and potatoes are great in moderation, but you need something more to help maintain your health. Add color to your diet! When grocery shopping, be sure to put at least five different colors of produce in your cart. This is a handy way to ensure nutritional benefits for the coming week.
Some examples:
Avocados
Avocados are a creamy source of heart-healthy fats, as well as non-animal proteins.
Tomatoes
Tomatoes contain lycopene, the antioxidant that gives tomatoes their red coloration. Lycopene may help lower the risk of certain types of cancer. Tomatoes are also a great tasting source of vitamin C.
Oranges
Speaking of vitamin C, oranges are chock full of that immunity-boosting vitamin.
Grapefruit
While not a favorite on everyone’s list, grapefruit is not only a vitamin C bearing citrus, some research suggests that it may help to lower “bad” cholesterol.
Bananas
Everyone knows that bananas are a good source of potassium, but did you know they are also full of B6, a vitamin that helps your body convert food into energy?
Cantaloupe
Sweet and juicy, these melons are high in vitamin A, which helps maintain healthy eyes.
Use these examples to make wise choices in the foods you purchase and eat. Adding color to your diet will add not only appealing visuals, but an assortment of vitamins and minerals!
–Ann Cathey
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