4 Health Benefits of Purple Foods
Not only beautiful, purple foods also bring many health benefits.
Purple fruits and vegetables are a food source containing many nutrients that are beneficial to health, such as flavonoids, polyphenols, ellagic acid, vitamins, minerals... In particular, Anthocyanidin - the compound that creates purple color in fruits and vegetables is a powerful antioxidant that can inhibit the harmful effects of free radicals in the body, bringing health benefits.
Good for the stomach
A study in the US shows that Anthocyanin in purple fruits and vegetables helps limit the formation of stomach ulcers, slows down the oxidation process and enhances the activity of natural antioxidants (such as glutathione) in the body.
Good for the brain
According to a study published in the Archives of Pharmacal Research, purple foods like purple sweet potatoes help support memory. Anthocyanins help prevent age-related decline in the nervous system and enhance learning and memory.
Improve cardiovascular health
According to the National Institute for Food Safety and Hygiene, flavonoid compounds in general and anthocyanins in particular are believed to have the ability to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease due to their ability to prevent the oxidation of low-density lipoproteins in plasma. The blood circulation system and heart muscle will be enhanced to protect against the negative effects of oxidation thanks to the Anthocyanins found in purple foods.
Support to reduce blood pressure
Research from King's College (London, UK) shows that resveratrol (contained in purple foods) oxidizes the protein PKG1a in the blood vessel wall, helping to relax and widen the vessels. When the blood vessels dilate, blood will circulate more easily, the force acting on the vessel wall will also decrease, thereby reducing blood pressure.
Although it brings many health benefits, purple foods are often less popular in Vietnam and Asian countries, especially fruits and berries such as blueberries, cranberries, raspberries, currants, etc. This is one of the reasons why many people are deficient in purple phytonutrients. Meanwhile, according to the recommendation of the World Health Organization (WHO), every day you should eat at least 400 grams of vegetables and fruits with all 5 colors: green, red, orange, white and purple to ensure a healthy body.
