The 5 Colors of Health and Their Benefits

Health is a complex concept, but a colorful diet can be a great place to start. The five colors of health— orange , red , purple , green , and brown —offer a range of nutrients and antioxidants essential to our well-being. Let's explore the benefits of each color together.

Yellow and orange: carotenoids and curcuminoids

Orange foods, such as carrots, squash, and sweet potatoes, are rich in carotenoids, including beta-carotene , which the body converts into vitamin A. This vitamin is essential for healthy vision, the immune system, and skin. Additionally, the curcuminoids in turmeric have powerful anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, helping to protect cells from damage and improve overall health.

Red: anthocyanins and lycopene

Red fruits, such as strawberries and cherries, are known for their content of flavonoids , molecules with antioxidant action that can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and also prevent some types of cancer. The red color of tomatoes is instead favored by lycopene , a carotenoid that protects tissues from degenerative damage and prevents some types of cancer such as prostate cancer . Furthermore, some small fruits such as blueberries or currants are rich in anthocyanins , which support the vascular system at the microcirculation level, protecting the small vessels especially at the ocular level . They also improve skin health by promoting a confirmed antiaging action .

Purple: Resveratrol

Purple foods like grapes, blueberries, and eggplant contain resveratrol , a powerful antioxidant that has been shown to have positive effects on heart health by improving circulation and reducing inflammation. Resveratrol is also being studied for its potential to reverse aging and protect the brain.

Green: Quercetin and Catechins

Green is synonymous with health, thanks to vegetables such as spinach, broccoli and green tea, which are rich in quercetin, glucosinolates and catechins. Quercetin has anti-inflammatory and antioxidant properties, while catechins , present in green tea, can help improve metabolism and reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease. Glucosinolates extracted from broccoli and Brassicacae in general have detoxifying properties and also demonstrate potential preventive effects on certain cancers.

Brown: polyphenols

Finally, brown foods, such as dark chocolate, nuts, and legumes, are rich in polyphenols, known for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Polyphenols can improve heart health by helping to reduce blood pressure and improve lipid profiles. They are also linked to brain health benefits and the prevention of certain degenerative diseases.