8 healthy purple foods you should eat every day

Anthocyanins in purple foods are antioxidants that neutralize harmful molecules called free radicals. Free radicals are naturally produced during cellular metabolism or absorbed through pollutants, cigarette smoke, alcohol, and ultraviolet (UV) rays.

Without antioxidants, the body can suffer from oxidative stress, increasing the risk of developing cardiovascular disease, cancer, arthritis, emphysema and Alzheimer’s disease. Below are purple foods rich in antioxidants, fiber, vitamins and minerals that are good for your health.

Plum

Plums are rich in anthocyanins, which can reduce inflammation and prevent allergic reactions. The nutrients in this fruit also improve cognition, reduce memory loss, bone health, and limit the risk of heart disease. Plums are rich in vitamins C, A and K, which help regulate blood sugar levels and boost immune health to fight respiratory pathogens.

Blueberry

Anthocyanins account for more than half of the antioxidants in blueberries. Eating this fruit contributes to reducing the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, supporting weight control and cognitive function. This is also a rich source of fiber and vitamins C and K that can maintain a healthy intestine and protect heart health.

Grape

Grapes have high levels of antioxidants, mainly anthocyanins, concentrated in the skin. Almost all grapes contain resveratrol – a nutrient that helps fight heart disease and neurological conditions such as Parkinson’s disease and Alzheimer’s disease.

Cherry

In addition to being rich in antioxidants, cherries provide vitamin C and tryptophan, which help the body produce serotonin, which affects mood. This fruit also contains melatonin, which supports good sleep. People who eat cherries regularly can reduce signs of oxidative stress, reduce inflammation, reduce muscle pain, and lower blood pressure. This food is also beneficial for people with arthritis, diabetes, and high cholesterol.

Eggplant

The antioxidants in eggplant are lutein and zeaxanthin, which are important for eye health. They are also rich in fiber, copper, manganese, potassium and thiamine which help lower cholesterol and prevent blood sugar spikes.

Purple cabbage

Purple cabbage has a delicious flavor and contains sulforaphane – beneficial for heart health and helps fight cancer. This vegetable is also rich in fiber and vitamins C and A important for vision, dental health, and promoting healthy bones.

Purple cauliflower

Purple cauliflower is rich in vitamin C, contains many anthocyanins, carotenoids, and antioxidants that have anti-cancer effects and reduce the risk of heart disease. They also contain fiber, calcium, folate, potassium and vitamin A.

Purple sweet potatoes

Purple sweet potatoes provide abundant beta-carotene. This is a carotenoid that the body converts into vitamin A, which supports eye health, the immune system, and healthy skin.