Indian Flag and Fruits

Colours of Health

The sight of the tricolour always makes us feel good about our country. And if we eat fruits and veggies in our national hues, we will feel really good about ourselves

ORANGE
Fruits and vegetables in this colour are rich in betacarotene, Vitamin C and various nutrients that help reduce age-related loss of vision. They are also anti-cancerous. They lower cholesterol and blood pressure, promote collagen formation and help maintain healthy joints.

Oranges : “if there is one thing oranges are famous for, it is their vitamin C concentration”, says Dr Shachi Sohal head, department of dietetics, BL Kapur Memorial Hospital, Delhi. “They offer antioxidant protection and help build strong immunity”. They are also a good source of fiber.

Carrots : “Besides being good for eyesight, the carrot is a good source of a variety of nutrients including vitamins K and C, pottassium and fibre, magnesium, photophorous and others. It helps regulate blood sugar and has anti-cancerous nutrients,” says Sohal.

Papayas : “These art high in folic acid and other unique protein-digesting enzymes” says Sohal. “Papayas are also a good source of vitamisn A and E and potassium, besides being a natural laxative.


WHITE
The whites contain nutrients that provide powerful immune-boosting activity. These nutrients also help maintain cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

Onions and Garlic : “Rich in sulfides and a phyto chemicals called allicin, they protect against tumours, reduce inflammation and lower blood fats, blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar”, says Sohal. They are also great infection fighters with their anti-bacterial, anti-fungal, anti-viral and anti-tumour properties.

Radish : Very fibrous and rich in moisture, the radish is a great natural laxative. Its high moisture content makes it very good for the skin and eyes.

GREEN

These are perhaps the best fruits and veggies to consume. They contain chlorophyll, fibre, folic acid, calcium, vitamin C and beta-carotene. The nutrients found in these vegetables reduce cancer risks, lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels, normalize digestion time, support retinal health and vision, fight harmful free radicals, and boost the immune system, say experts.

Spinach : Very high in iron and folic acids, spinach helps reduce birth defects. Its high calcium and fibre content make it good for the digestion, skin and eyes.

Boroccoli : A cruciferous vegetable, broccoli has anti-cancerous properties. The presence of antioxidants, minerals and vitamins A and C make it very good for health”, says Sohal.

Kiwi : A kiwi a day keeps the doctor away, is the latest saying. Rich in vitamic C and potassium, it protects against weak eyesight. Because it is low-calorie and high in moisture, it is a god diet food too. It also protects skin against damage.