The phytonutrients that give these ruby beauties their color also come with powerful health benefits. Deeper colors generally mean that the vegetable is richer in these phytonutrients including antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. These are all compounds that are linked to providing help in the fight against chronic illnesses, and nutrients that support and boost the immune system function.
Red vegetables get their color and nutrition enhancement from lycopene and anthocyanin. Lycopene is an antioxidant that has been linked to reducing the risk of heart disease, improving eyesight and eye health, and fighting infections.
Anthocyanin is said to protect the liver, and reduce blood pressure and inflammation.
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Tomatoes
Tomatoes provide a lot of health benefits. They are a great source of lycopene, potassium, and vitamin C. Any way we choose to consume tomatoes will provide us with many nutritional benefits, but when they are cooked with a little bit of oil it is easier for the body to absorb the qlycopene. The highest amount of the powerful antioxidant lycopene is found in tomatoes and watermelons.
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Red Peppers
These veggies provide a daily dose of vitamin A and three times more vitamin C than the needed daily intake.
They are a great choice for vigorous immune function and glowing skin. Their abundant concentration of vitamin C helps in the protection from different infections. The red bell peppers also contain vitamin B6, vitamin E, and folate. They will provide you with nutrients eaten both cooked or raw.
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Strawberries
Strawberries are packed with antioxidants and polyphenols. Despite the delicious and one of a kind experience of eating a strawberry, they can make us pretty healthy. The nutrients they provide are Vitamin C, potassium, manganese, magnesium and dietary fiber.
In smaller amounts, but nevertheless present in a strawberry are several minerals such as iron, copper, and phosphorous as well as the Vitamins B6, K, and E.
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Watermelon
Watermelon is a perfect way to hydrate. It contains about 92 percent water, but it is full of nutrients as well.
This refreshing red fruit provides significant amounts of Vitamin C, B6 and A, antioxidants and amino acids.
Because of its red color, it must contain a lot of lycopene – an antioxidant which is good for improving the eyesight, protects the heart, provides protection from inflammation and keeps the bones strong.
Enjoying these fruits and vegetables as a part of your daily diet can significantly improve your health and diminish the risk of tumors or other malign dangers. Last, but not least, you will get a nice colorful dish which will nourish both your body and your soul. Enjoy.