PLATE CHANGE
The Power of Red BY SALLY KARLOVITZ, CN
WHEN YOU THINK OF RED, what comes to mind? Love? Anger? No color is more emotionally intense than red. Studies on color have shown that when people see the color red, their blood pressure elevates and their breathing becomes more rapid. In foods found in their natural state, the color red can also have a powerful physical effect on us because fruit and vegetable colors come from the presence of carotenoid and anthocyanin antioxidants. Antioxidants play the crucial role in our bodies of protecting our cells. One goal nutritionally is to get a broad spectrum of antioxidants, and one of the best ways to do that is to eat a broad spectrum of colors in our diets. The focus of this article is red foods and how they can enhance our health. Here are some red foods that you may want to include in your diet: Cranberries. These small red berries, from the blueberry family, contain powerful compounds that have been shown to help keep bacteria from adhering to the bladder wall, thus supporting health urinary tract function. Cranberries are rich in vitamin C, antioxidants, and flavonoids, and these compounds all play a role in heart health. Recent studies have shown that cranberry juice concentrate may help protect against heart disease, improving good HDL cholesterol levels and reducing blood pressure. Use 100 percent cranberry juice in a smoothie, or use fresh cranberries to create sauces and chutneys. Beets. Beet is the newest friend to the athlete since it may help improve vascular function and delay the onset of fatigue in healthy adults. But this benefit seems to extend beyond athletes, as nitrate-rich beet juice may help lower blood pressure and improve vascular function in adults with high cholesterol. Try adding chopped beets to salads, or use beet juice powder as an addition to smoothies. Goji Berries. Goji is a fruit that has been used in Tibet for over 1,000 years for its health benefits. Traditionally used
for kidney and liver problems, goji berries may also lower cholesterol, support immunity, and boost energy, according to recent studies. Use goji berries as a snack, or to top salads or yogurt. Tomatoes. Tomatoes are naturally rich in the antioxidant carotene lycopene, which gives them their bright red color. Studies have found that increased levels of lycopene may decrease risk of certain cancers, especially prostate cancer. Studies have also shown lycopene benefits heart health. Tomatoes are a versatile fruit that can be used fresh in salads and sandwiches, or cooked to make sauces, soups and casseroles.
Chamberlin’s™
Max Extract™ Cran-Ultra™ Cranberry Promotes urinary tract health.* Provides antioxidant support.* Produced from pure cranberry fiber infused with cranberry extract for a concentrated formula.
The Healthy Edge
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