Last week I talked about the importance of including more antioxidant-rich fruit and vegetables in your diet. I focused on the color red, and today I’d like to address the particular benefits to orange and yellow produce. Orange and yellow produce contain nutrients that promote immunity, vision and cancer prevention.
Here is a list of some of my favorites and their added benefits:
FRUITS:
(1) Oranges – High in vitamin C, fiber, potassium and B vitamins, including folate. Great for anyone suffering from mood disorders, like depression. I love orange zest as a flavoring in some of my baking recipes!
(2) Mango – High in iron, fiber, pectin and vitamin C. Has beneficial enzymes that help to relieve indigestion. Improves concentration and helps to treat acne.
(3) Peach – High in fiber, vitamin C, potassium and beta-carotene. Peach tea is used in Eastern cultures for detoxification and cleansing of the kidney.
(4) Pineapple – High in manganese, which is important for developing strong bones and connective tissue. This super fruit contains bromelain, an enzyme, valuable as a digestive aid and for easing indigestion. Pineapple is also helpful for sinusitis and arthritis. Also great for curbing morning sickness, moms.
AND VEGETABLES:
(1) Carrots – High in beta-carotene and vitamin A, carrots are anti-aging, great for skin and a powerful antiseptic (They actually can be used on cuts raw, boiled or mashed).
(2) Sweet Potatoes – High in Vitamin C, B6, beta-carotene and manganese. In addition to the benefits mentioned above, this powerful vegetable helps with arthritis, blood sugar, stomach ulcers and emphysema. They are a good source of dietary fiber, which helps promote a healthy digestive system. It’s also thought that they may help cleanse heavy metals from the digestive tract.
What yellow or orange foods do you see at your local health food store this month?
Be Well!
