Eat the Rainbow: Why Colourful Food Is Your Best Health Insurance

Eat the Rainbow: Why Colourful Food Is Your Best Health Insurance

No matter how healthily you eat, one thing is certain, you need plenty of antioxidants in your diet. And the best way to get them? Fill your plate with colourful, plant-based foods.

Antioxidants help quench free radicals, unstable molecules that damage your cells, proteins, and DNA. This process, known as oxidative stress, contributes to aging and disease. By reducing oxidative stress with a variety of antioxidant-rich foods, you support your immune system, lower inflammation, and boost long-term health.

Are You Eating Enough Plants?

Surprisingly, only 15% of people manage to eat five portions of fruits and vegetables daily, even though these foods are rich in vital antioxidants. To strengthen your body’s natural defences, it’s essential to eat a wide variety of colours every single day.

Each colour provides unique phytonutrients that work in synergy to protect your health:

And don’t forget, antioxidants are also found in:

• Nuts and seeds
• Dark chocolate (yes, really!)
• Green tea and rooibos tea
• Herbs and spices
• Protein-rich foods like eggs

Easy Ways to Increase Your Veg Intake

Want to make it easier (and tastier) to get more vegetables into your daily meals? Try these tips:

• Grate carrots, courgette, and fennel and top with homemade tomato sauce
• Puree veggies into soups and flavour with ginger, coriander, and parsley
• Add chopped leftover broccoli to salads
• Marinate vegetables in olive oil, garlic, and tamari to soften them
• Snack on raw veg with your favourite dip
• Start your evening meal with a small side salad
• Add fresh salsa or harissa to any dish for flavour and a health boost

Final Thought

When your plate is colourful, your body is nourished. Don’t underestimate the power of plant foods to heal, protect, and energize your entire system. Begin today by eating the rainbow and feel the difference it makes.