Living Joyfully-Eat From The Rainbow..Part II

Last week we discussed the health benefits of eating fresh fruits from every color of the rainbow, and focused specifically on the Red and Orange foods found in nature. Today, we are going to look at Yellow and Green foods. Eating more fresh foods has been shown to lower incidences of depression, which I'd say is a good way to live joyfully!

• Yellow
• In addition to their reputation for having high levels of potassium, Bananas also promote heart health because of their fiber and said potassium content. In addition, bananas are a natural antacid, and can help eliminate the bacterium that cause stomach ulcers.
• One cup of fresh Pineapple contains 128% your daily necessary value of manganese, a mineral that protects bone strength, maintains normal levels of blood sugar, and promotes the healthy function of your thyroid. Pineapple also contains a lot of vitamin C, which promotes immunity.
• Although Lemons seem more like a condiment for one's water, it actually provides many useful vitamins and minerals. Lemons (and limes) contain certain flavonoid compounds that have an antibacterial effect, and may ward off certain illnesses. In addition, lemons are a good source of vitamin C.
• Yes, it's true, Corn is a grain and not a vegetable. But, that doesn't mean it's not healthy. Corn is actually a good source of antioxidants, and it's high fiber content promote heart and colon health.
• One cup of Yellow Bell Peppers contain almost 300% your daily recommended value of vitamin C. 
• Winter Squash is a very concentrated source of ALA, an Omega-3 fatty acid. It also contains a lot of alpha-carotene and beta-carotene, antioxidants that promote vision and overall health.
• Green
• Green Beans are a good source of almost 20 vitamins and minerals, and also contain lutein and beta-carotene which promote vision health.
• One cup of fresh Asparagus contains over 114% your daily recommended value of vitamin K, a vitamin that allows your blood to clot normally and your bones to stay strong. It also contains 65% your daily value of folate, a vitamin that lowers your risk of depression, and prevents anemia by supporting the production of red blood cells.
• Spinach is one of the biggest nutrient powerhouses out there. A serving contains 1110% (yes, that's over 1000%) of your daily value (DV) of vitamin K, and 300% your DV of vitamin A. It also contains no fewer than 13 different flavonoids that work as antioxidants and anti-cancer agents. Spinach also slows age-related mental decline.
• Broccoli, although the archnemesis of children all over the world, is an good source of over 20 vitamins and minerals, as well as lutein and beta-carotene, and other antioxidants. Broccoli also has anti-cancer properties.
• Celery gets a bad reputation as being "only water", but in reality, celery contains antioxidant properties and is an excellent source of vitamin K.
• Green Peas are a great source of fiber, manganese, vitamin C, and vitamin K.
• Cabbage contains compounds that can help support healthy estrogen levels, and reduce incidences of breast cancer. Cabbage juice can treat peptic ulcers.
• Avocados also seem to get a bad reputation for being "full of fat", but the truth is that the fat in avocados are healthy fats. 2/3 of the fat in an avocado is heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. Avocados are also a good source of folic acid (necessary in pregnancy) and vitamin B6.
• One cup of Olives contain almost 25% your DV of Iron, which is necessary for total health.
• Kiwis can cut down on respiratory issues such as wheezing and night coughing. It is also an excellent source of vitamin C
• Grapes can lower bad cholesterol, maintain healthy blood sugar levels, and are also being recognized for their abilities to reduce the size of certain types of breast cancer.
• Pears have nutrients that can reduce the absorption of cholesterol, thus lowering cholesterol levels. Pears also contain a lot of fiber, promoting digestive and heart health.

Eating better makes us feel better. It gives us clarity of mind to adjust our perspective, and when you feel better, you're just happier altogether.

Next week we will be looking at Blue and Purple foods.

(Source: WH Foods)