Rainbow of Produce

I've known for some time that certain colors are associated with certain nutrients when it comes to fruits and veggies.  Apparently nature isn't just random!  I recently came across this chart that lays it all out. See if you can spot the trend.

Color	Phytonutrients	Health Benefits	Food Sources
Red	Lycopene Anthocyanin	Prevents certain cancers.  Strengthens collagen proteins.	strawberries, tomatoes, watermelon, cherries
Orange	Beta-Carotene Liminoids	Protects against bronchitis, asthma, cataracts, and lung cancer.  Can decrease cholesterol levels.	carrots, squash, melons
Yellow	Liminoids Beta-carotene Zeaxanthin	Protects vision.  Prevents colon and breast cancers.	yellow peppers, corn
Green	Lutein Saponins Glucosinolates	Protects eyesight.  Heart and skin maintenance.  Prevents cancer. Lowers lipid levels.	spinach, collard greens, broccoli, tomatillos
Blue	Anthocyanin	Prevents colon, cervical and prostate cancers.	blueberries, grapes, plums
Purple	Anthocyanin	Prevents cancer.  Anti-inflammatory.	grapes, raspberries, blackberries, eggplant

Fruits and vegetables protect against cancer!  Now more than ever I'm determined to get more fruits and vegetables into mine and my family's diet.  I know first hand that vegetables are an acquired taste, and I'm open to suggestions on more ways to get little ones to eat these important food stuffs.  

In closing, I'm grateful for farmer's markets in the summer.  I'm grateful that we live in a country/state/city that can bring fresh produce from other parts of the world/country to our winter-y climate.  I'm grateful that I have the means to buy healthy foods.