The Power of Red Foods

The color red has many meanings. In some cultures, red is a celebratory color. Whereas, among South Africans red is the color of mourning. During celebrity events, the red carpet is rolled out to stress the very importance of the people there. Even in business, men and women add a touch of red to their wardrobe (e.g. red ties or shoes) as a sign of power and success. But, the power of red isn't only limited to star treatment and the business world. Everyone can experience the power of red and it may be right in your refrigerator.

Red foods have many advantages that contribute to your well-being. Keeping your doctor away is no longer just about "an apple a day." Red foods such as strawberries, cherries, raspberries, watermelons, tomatoes, red potatoes and beets are packed with powerful antioxidants. Antioxidants protect the body from the harmful effects of free radicals.

While some fruits and vegetables are seasonal, others are available year-round. So, you shouldn't find it difficult to get your hands on red foods. Red foods are packed with lycopene and anthocyanins. Lycopene rich foods, such as tomatoes, help to neutralize free radical damage to cells in the body that may result in cancers. Similarly, anthocyanins contain healthy substances to prevent free radical damage. The damage to cells caused by free radicals results in changes to DNA which may lead to cancer. Antioxidants found in red foods, among others, have been shown in studies to prevent certain cancers, decrease cardiovascular heart disease and fight macular degeneration.

The next time you visit the produce section at your local grocery be sure to add a bit of red to your cart. Here is a glance at some of the health benefits red foods provide and some quick tips on how you can easily add them to your diet.

Strawberries are packed with vitamin C for a great jolt to your immune system. It is a good red food for expecting moms since it is also a source for folic acid which decreases the risk for neural tube defects. Strawberries are a delectable treat so besides eating them whole you can add a few slices to your cereal or whip up a tasty smoothie.

Cherries aren't only meant to garnish your cocktails. These small red fruits contain loads of potassium which helps to lower blood pressure. Cherries are also an excellent source of fiber and Vitamin C. Get more of this red food by adding it to trail mixes.

Cranberries are another antioxidant that have been shown to prevent the bacteria causing stomach ulcers called Helicobacter pylori. Don't wait until Thanksgiving to get your fix of this red food. Buy cranberry juice or add cranberries to your salad.

Tomatoes contain lots of lycopene which has been shown to offer antioxidant protection from prostate cancer and breast cancer. The great thing about this red food is that its nutritional value is kicked up a notch by cooking. So, get more of it by adding marinara sauce to your pasta or eating a veggie pizza.

Watermelon is also plentiful with lycopene and has many health benefits including reducing the risk for macular degeneration. Add this refreshing treat as a snack for you and your guests at the next BBQ.

Pink grapefruit is a member of the red foods family. Not only does it have the advantage of being an antioxidant, it also has pectin which helps to keep cholesterol down. Drinking pink grapefruit or eating a half of a grapefruit is a good way to easily implement it into your diet. Grapefruits have many benefits. But, for those taking medications check with your doctor as this fruit may medically interfere with your prescription drugs.

Red potatoes contain loads of lycopene and other nutritional benefits that contribute to its antioxidant effects. Lay off the french fries. Consider baking or roasting red potatoes as a healthier alternative.

Red pepper is full of vitamins A and C which contribute to the health of your skin, teeth and bones as well as being a powerful antioxidant. The ways to incorporate red peppers into your diet are endless. So chop, dice or slice this red food into your salads or soups.

Red onions are also packed with the benefits of lycopene, anthocyanin and Vitamin C. It also has the added benefit of chromium which helps cells respond to insulin. Use red onions, instead of yellow or white ones, in salads or vegetable dishes. It adds a great color to your dish and multiple health benefits too.

Beets are another powerful red food with antioxidant effects. You can get more of beets by adding it to your salads, stews or soups.

When you think red, think good health as these fruits and vegetables are some of the many foods that help prevent some cancers and heart disease. While taking dietary supplement pills are helpful, nothing can beat the punch of getting your daily source of vitamins than eating whole foods. Miriam Pappo, MS, RD, the director of clinical nutrition at Montefiore Medical Center suggests eating fruits and vegetables with a variety of color because it provides a balanced diet and good nutrition. Red foods are great accents to meals because of its vibrant color. But, the substances it contains provides you with enough protection to prevent diseases and keep you even healthier.

Sources: http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/features/red-foods-the-new-health-powerhouses