Fruits and vegetables provide antioxidants, minerals and vitamins essential for good health. Some kinds of fruits and vegetables supply more nutrients. According to Catherine Jones and Elaine B. Trujillo, authors of "Eating for Lower Cholesterol: A Balanced Approach to Heart Health with Recipes Everyone Will Love," the more colorful the produce the healthier it is for you.
Broccoli
Broccoli is a cruciferous vegetable that may help lower your cholesterol and blood pressure. Eating broccoli supplies fiber and vitamin C to maintain good digestive health and fight off infections. According to Barbara L. Bobo, author of "Baby Boomers' Guide to Healthy Eating: A Self Help Book for Making Choices Not Changes," broccoli reduces your risk of many cancers by fighting off toxins that lead to the development of cancerous cells. Regular consumption of broccoli may also improve your immunity because it contains several antioxidants necessary for destroying germs and bacteria.
Berries
Any type of berry, including blueberries, strawberries, blackberries and raspberries are considered some of the top fruits for good health, report Jones and Trujillo. The dark color of berries signifies several different nutrients important for good health. Darker berries also contain more antioxidants that help your body fight off infection and remain in good health. Berries are also a good source of fiber, which regulates digestion and may prevent bloating and gas. Enjoy a cup of berries plain or sprinkle them on your oatmeal or breakfast cereal. Smoothies are another way to enjoy berries or toss a few in a fruit salad. Cherries offer similar benefits and can be eaten as a substitute for berries.
Bell Peppers
Bell peppers are a vegetable high in vitamins and fiber, report Jones and Trujillo. Red bell peppers supply more than a day's worth of vitamin C in one 1/2 cup serving. Orange and yellow bell peppers are also good sources of vitamin C and their skins are loaded with fiber. Bobo adds that any color of bell pepper may help reduce your risk of several types of cancer as well. Bell peppers can be added to pasta sauces, stir-frys and soup recipes. Strips of bell pepper can be added to a salad or eaten with low-fat salad dressing as a healthy snack.
References
- "Eating for Lower Cholesterol: A Balanced Approach to Heart Health with Recipes Everyone Will Love"; Catherine Jones and Elaine B. Trujillo; 2007
- "Baby Boomers' Guide to Healthy Eating: A Self Help Book for Making Choices Not Changes"; Barbara L. Bobo; 2006
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