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7 Red Foods That Are Essential for Health and Longevity

An apple a day really may keep the doctor away.

By Mia MoralesPublished 4 years ago 3 min read
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An apple a day really may keep the doctor away. That’s a red apple, to be precise. Red foods are particularly rich in disease-fighting antioxidants. These compounds are believed to combat the effects of free radicals, which are unstable atoms that can damage cells and foster illness and aging. Lycopene, the antioxidant that gives red fruits and vegetables their bright red color, is believed to reduce the risk of cancer and heart disease. While most plant-based foods are generally healthy, these seven red fruits and vegetables rise to the top as particularly smart choices for anyone interested in supporting good health and longevity.

Cherries

Cherries are a beloved summer treat that is as healthy as it is delicious. The combination of vitamin C and potassium in cherries can help lower blood pressure. In addition to their high mineral content, cherries contain quercetin and anthocyanin, two powerful antioxidants that help protect against cardiovascular disease and cancer. As a bonus, cherries are known to be high in fiber, making them helpful for digestion and weight loss.

Pomegranates

Pomegranates are fun to eat and are loaded with health benefits. The plump red seeds are technically potent little berries that burst with tartness when you bite into them. Pomegranates contain polyphenols, naturally occurring compounds that reduce blood pressure and joint soreness, and work against disease-causing free radicals. For a quick, potent hit of pomegranate, you can try pomegranate extract, a concentrated juice that will quickly deliver those health benefits and plenty of immune-boosting vitamin C to your system.

Red Delicious Apple

Apples have lived up to their reputation of promoting health; their high-fiber content can help aid digestion and keep cholesterol levels in check. The Red Delicious apple exceeds most other apple varieties in health potency, because its skin has very high concentrations of antioxidants. It turns out the red skin is where most of the fiber is found, as well. A Red Delicious apple a day may do just what the old cliché promises, as long as you don’t discard the skin.

Strawberries

This versatile berry uniquely sports its seeds on the outside rather than the inside of the fleshy fruit, but that’s not the only claim to fame of these tart red gems. Rich in the antioxidant ellagic acid, strawberries are known for their potential to neutralize cancer cells. In addition, they are chock-full of polyphenols, powerful natural chemicals that can boost immune health and weight loss.

Plums

Red plums are a high-fiber, low-calorie tasty treat that is loaded with illness-fighting antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals. Plums are believed to ward off the development of metabolic syndrome, a group of conditions that increase risk for stroke and diabetes. And if that’s not enough, plums can help reduce belly fat and promote weight loss.

Red Leaf Lettuce

This elegant salad green, with names like Ruby lettuce and Red Fire lettuce, does more than just add color to your salad. Red lettuce has a sweet, mellow flavor and high concentrations of antioxidants. While contributing to overall health and vitality, red lettuce is also known for its fiber and vitamin A concentrations, which promotes healthy bones, teeth, and skin.

Beets

This deep red root vegetable contains unique healing properties based on a group of antioxidants called betalains. These compounds are reported to reduce free radicals and help prevent digestive problems and colon cancer. Recent research has tied the high vitamin and mineral content in beets to protection against inflammation and Alzheimer’s disease. High concentrations of electrolytes, such as sodium and potassium, make beets a good choice to regulate blood pressure.

Most people know that fruits and vegetables are an important component of a healthy diet. It’s easy to forget just how important they are, and the many health benefits they provide. The antioxidants found in red fruits and vegetables are their notable claim to fame. It is believed they provide protection against serious illnesses, such as diabetes, arthritis, and cancer. If it’s a fruit or vegetable and it’s red in color, it might be a perfect addition to your diet; you can count on it to taste great and have powerful healing properties.

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