Benefits of Eating Red Colored Fruits and Vegetables

Anamika | Nov 25, 2009 |

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Red fruits and vegetables have great health benefits. They are known to protect from various health conditions including prevention of cardiovascular diseases and reduction of cancer risks. The color red has long been associated with strength, health and passion. The red group of Vegetables and fruits are rich in iron and potassium. They also contain phytochemical such as lycopene and anthocyanins which helps our body to fight several diseases. These phytochemicals in the red group of fruits and vegetables have unique anti aging and cancer protecting functions. Red fruits and Vegetables are great for the immune system and can help when one is weak, anemic and are vulnerable to Viruses.

The red color of these fruits and vegetables is due to the lycopene content in them. Lycopene is an antioxidant that neutralizes free radicals in the body. Lycopene has been known to assist with memory and reduce the risk of several types of cancer, including prostate cancer. Some of the fruits and vegetables rich in Lycopene are tomato, Watermelons, pink grapefruits and guava. The lycopene content becomes even stronger when cooked. Some such cooked items with high lycopene content are tomato soups, tomato sauce, tomato paste, spaghetti sauce etc.

Another phytochemical in the red group of vegetables and fruits is anthocyanin. It is proved to be a good antioxidant and also helpful in reducing the risk of heart disease, blood pressure, diabetics etc. Red fruits and vegetables like strawberries, raspberries, Cranberries, Red Cabbage, Kidney Beans, Cherries, Beetroots, Red Apples and Red Onion contains anthocyanin.

Red Color Fruits and vegetables are excellent for the Root Chakra and are used to treat problems and conditions related to the Base or Root Chakra which is associated with qualities like patience, stability and confidence etc. An easy Root Chakra Juice can be made with a base of Apple Juice by adding other vegetables and fruits to it. These can be Beets and tomatoes, Beets, Strawberries, Oranges etc.