After going through all of the other colours, we now come to blue and purple foods. Purple traditionally symbolizes royalty and blue is associated with trust. In relation to food, these colours represent a vision of good health. These foods are excellent for us and are very high in flavonoids. Generally speaking, the darker the fruit or vegetable, the more flavonoids. These compounds have antioxidant properties, meaning they help protect against cellular damage. Flavonoids in these foods have been shown to improve cardiovascular health by improving the health of blood vessels. Another type of flavonoid present in these foods is anthocyanins. People who eat foods with lots of anthocyanins typically have a lower rates of cancer and heart disease.
Blueberries are extremely high in antioxidants. Studies have also shown that eating more blueberries is linked with improved memory function and healthy aging. Some of these foods just have purple skins – eggplant (aubergine), plums, figs and concord grapes. The skins of these foods still hold the health benefits of purple foods, containing those lovely anthocyanins. They are also associated with reducing the risk of high blood pressure and maintaining good levels of cholesterol in the body.
Some food examples of the purple and blue group are prunes, raisins, purple grapes, juneberries, plums, figs, eggplant, blueberries, blackberries, acai berries and purple cabbage. The compounds that give these foods their colour also help to soothe inflammation in the body.
Add blackberries to a smoothie, roasted eggplant to a stew, or grate raw beets over your salad. It will add fibre and healthy nutrients that will support your body and keep you healthy!
