Eat the Rainbow

We have all heard about the importance of consuming fruits and vegetables. However, fruits and vegetables have specific vitamins and minerals depending on their colors. Eat the rainbow to have a fully nutritious diet.

Vitamin A (red)

Vitamin A is a group of fat-soluble retinoids. These vitamins are involved in immune function, vision, reproduction, and cellular communication. Vitamin A is critical for vision as an essential component of rhodopsin, a protein that absorbs light in the retinal receptors, and because it supports the normal differentiation and functioning of the conjunctival membranes and cornea. In addition, it supports cell growth and differentiation, playing a critical role in the normal formation and maintenance of the heart, lungs, kidneys, and other organs.

Eat the colors of the Rainbow!

Vitamin C (orange/yellow)

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is a water-soluble vitamin that is naturally present in some foods, added to others, and available as a dietary supplement. Humans, unlike most animals, are unable to synthesize vitamin C, so it is an essential dietary component. Vitamin C is required for the biosynthesis of collagen, L-carnitine, and certain neurotransmitters. Collagen is an essential component of connective tissue, which plays a vital role in wound healing. It is also an important physiological antioxidant and has been shown to regenerate other antioxidants within the body. Research is being done examining the ability of Vitamin C being able to limit the damaging effects of free radicals through its antioxidant activity, might help prevent or delay the development of certain cancers, cardiovascular disease, and other diseases in which oxidative stress plays a casual role.

Vitamin B (green)

In addition to proteins such as fish, poultry, meat, eggs, and dairy it is also found in leafy greens, beans, and peas.