Eat Red for Good Health

Red colored foods may strengthen the heart and help fight cancer. Naturally occurring protective compounds, phytochemicals lycopene and anthocyanins are concentrated in red foods. These compounds contribute to healthy plant structures and are thought to do the same for healthy bodies.

• Lycopene. Found in red tomatoes, particularly cooked tomatoes, lycopene protects the body from cancer of the cervix, colon, bladder, stomach and prostate. It increases heart health by boosting the cardiovascular system.
• Anthocyanins. Found in red apples and red wines, it improves cardiovascular health.
• Antioxidants. Found in radicchio, a bitter red-leafed cousin of endive, and strawberries, it absorbs oxygen-free radicals that can damage healthy cells.

Other red foods that promote good health include beets, blood oranges, cherries, cranberries, pomegranates, raspberries, red grapes, red onions, red peppers, red potatoes, ruby red grapefruit and watermelon.