“Eating the rainbow” is a simplified way to think and look at what foods can deliver in terms of their nutritional value. A wide array of colorful fruits and veggies will benefit your body and smile.
Red:
- Strawberries are a great source of vitamin C, which helps maintain gum health.[1]
- Red peppers also contain vitamin C, and they come with a host of anti-inflammatory benefits.[2]
Orange:
- Pumpkin and carrots have lots of vitamin A, which helps keep mucous membranes healthy and prevent dry mouth. Carrots also contain immunity-strengthening antioxidants.[3]
- Butternut squash is rich with vitamin C and potassium that helps neutralize acids that remove calcium from the body.[4]
Yellow:
- Yellow peppers have anti-inflammatory benefits and vitamin C.[5]
- Cheeses contain calcium and phosphate that helps build strong bones and teeth.
Green:
- Leafy greens contain vitamin K that helps block substances that break down bone, promoting good bone density. They are also a good source of calcium.[6]
- Broccoli contains folic acid that helps keep your gums healthy and can help prevent cleft lip and palate during pregnancy.
Blue:
- Blueberries are a rich source of vitamin C and vitamin K.[7]
Purple:
- Eggplant contains vitamin C, vitamin K and potassium. It also has folic acid that builds strong bones and helps prevent osteoporosis.[8]
- Acai berries have antioxidants to strengthen immunity.[9]
White:
- Cauliflower has vitamin C and antioxidants. It’s also an anti-inflammatory and a great substitute for starchy grains in diets.[10]
- Plain yogurt promotes strong teeth and bones by being rich in calcium and phosphate.
[1] https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/2676112
[2] http://oralhealth.deltadental.com/Search/22,21445
[3] http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/antioxidants-your-immune-system-super-foods-optimal-health
[4] http://healthland.time.com/2012/10/09/10-ways-to-build-healthy-bones-and-keep-them-strong/
[5] http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/antioxidants-your-immune-system-super-foods-optimal-health
[6] http://oralhealth.deltadental.com/Search/22,Delta118n
[7] http://www.healthline.com/nutrition/10-proven-benefits-of-blueberries#section3
[8] https://www.organicfacts.net/health-benefits/vegetable/health-benefits-of-eggplant.html
[9] http://www.webmd.com/food-recipes/antioxidants-your-immune-system-super-foods-optimal-health
[10] https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/benefits-of-cauliflower#section3
