Want to make sure your kids have the nutrition they need to thrive? Encourage them to “eat the rainbow!” Why? Plants contain pigments, called phytonutrients, which give them their color. These different colors in fruits and vegetables are linked to higher levels of specific nutrients. A diet full of colorful produce is good for bodies, brains, and taste buds! Check out these vibrant vitamins and where to get them.
Red (Lycopene):
Heart health, cancer prevention, and memory. Try… tomatoes, red bell peppers, watermelon, pink grapefruit, radishes
Orange/yellow (Carotenoids):
Strong immune system, healthy skin, good eyesight. Try… carrots, sweet potatoes, oranges, yellow/orange bell peppers, cantaloupe
Green (Lutein):
Healthy eyes, high in folic acid, strong bones, teeth, and nails. Try… Peas, lettuce, broccoli, spinach, kiwi, honeydew melon, grapes
Blue/purple (Anthocyanins):
Improved memory, lower blood pressure, cancer fighting. Try… berries, eggplant, plums, purple potatoes, red onions
White/tan (Allicin):
Heart health, lower cholesterol and blood pressure, strong bones. Try… mushrooms, cauliflower, onions, bananas, pears, garlic
Fruits and vegetables aren’t the only healthy thing in the garden; according to research, dirt itself is an immune system booster! Exposure to dirt through gardening and outdoor play decreases children’s risk of developing asthma, allergies, and other autoimmune issues. Just remember to wash your hands before digging into dinner!