Discover the Hidden Benefits of Colorful Vegetables

Nutrition expert Dr. Maya Roseman explained on her radio show the importance of fruit and vegetable colors and their health impacts. According to her, "Colorful and juicy fruits, a rich vegetable salad – these colors are not merely for appearance. They reveal the nutritional value and antioxidants within them."

She emphasized on her show on 103fm that "it's recommended to diversify and consume vegetables and fruits from all five color groups: red, orange, green, white, and purple. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables is crucial because each contains different defense systems that help combat harmful processes. Each color represents a different antioxidant necessary for health."

Later, she highlighted the benefits of each color group:

Red – Lycopene: "An antioxidant vital for eye health, reducing cataracts, and lowering cancer risk, especially prostate cancer. Found abundantly in tomatoes and is more bioavailable after cooking, like in tomato paste. Strawberries, pomegranates, cherries, and red apples are sources of anthocyanins."

Orange and Yellow – Carotenoids: "Antioxidants that enhance vision, skin health, and immune function, and prevent cancer. Carrots are excellent and remain beneficial even after heating. This group also includes citrus fruits rich in flavonoids, which help prevent heart diseases and cancer."

Green – Chlorophyll and Lutein: "Important for heart disease prevention, cell renewal, and eye protection, especially for light-colored eyes. Spinach and broccoli are excellent choices, along with lettuce, avocado, and other leafy greens that provide vitamin K, potassium, and magnesium for bone strength."

White – "Reduces diabetes risk, improves blood circulation, and helps reduce heart disease. Onions and garlic are rich in sulfur compounds that fight bacteria and inflammation. Cauliflower, celery root, and bananas provide potassium to prevent high blood pressure."

Purple – Anthocyanins: "Very powerful antioxidants that protect the brain, maintain blood vessel walls, and reduce inflammation. Purple cabbage, berries, eggplant, and beets are excellent examples. Anthocyanins also slow aging processes, particularly of the brain."

In conclusion, Dr. Roseman explained that "a conscious choice of various fruit and vegetable colors is a simple way to improve health and add variety to your meals."