Health Benefits of Purple Foods

The health benefits of purple foods derive from the antioxidant anthocyanin. Anthocyanin is the natural pigment that gives purple fruits and vegetables their color.

Anthocyanin is a powerful, protective antioxidant that benefits our health in many ways. A diet rich in anthocyanin helps fight free radicals and protects against cancer. Anthocyanin, like other antioxidants, protects cells from damage and strengthens the immune system.

There is also evidence that the health benefits of blue or purple fruits and vegetables, and especially berries, include improving memory function and protection against the onset of Alzheimer’s disease.

As well as slowing down the memory loss that is often associated with ageing, blueberries in particular are also known to reduce blood-cholesterol levels and improve urinary tract health.Further health benefits of anthocyanin include improved cardio-vascular health and blood circulation, which reduce the likelihood of heart disease.

As you can see, consuming a healthy diet rich in deep blue and purple foods provides extensive health benefits. It’s easy to achieve this by making simple soups and smoothies a regular part of your healthy diet plan.

If you're trying to include more purple foods in your healthy diet plan, then this beetroot soup recipe is a simple soup packed with the health benefits of anthocyanin. For a filling yet refreshing smoothie, how about this easy to make blueberry smoothie recipe.

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