Antioxidant reds, purifying greens, energising oranges - the colours of foods are not just pleasing to the eye; they can lift your mood and nourish your body as well.
A vibrant plate doesn’t just please the eye – it’s a great way to support your wellbeing. The colours of ingredients often hint at their nutritional benefits, with certain shades linked to specific nutrients, antioxidants, and vitamins. On this page, we dive into the fascinating connection between colour and nutrition. Discover how colourful ingredients contribute to your wellbeing, while transforming your meals into fresh, nutritious delights.
The colour red is tied to passion and the heart – and for good reason. Many red foods are rich in lycopene, known for lowering blood pressure and supporting heart health. They usually also contain anthocyanin, an antioxidant with anti-inflammatory properties, along with vitamin C, which can boost eye health. On the emotional level, red is the colour of energy and vitality. So stock up on tomatoes, cherries, strawberries, watermelon, onions and red peppers - they’re as good for your body as they are for brightening your plate!
Green is the colour of nature, and in food, it’s a symbol of health, balance, and freshness. From broccoli and spinach to avocado, asparagus, and kiwi, the variety of greens is endless – and so are their benefits. The vibrant green pigment we see in these foods is the result of chlorophyll, a sign of their rich content of vitamins A, C, B and K, along with potassium, magnesium, fibre and antioxidants. Greens help boost immunity, detoxify the body, and support a healthy gut microbiome.
To maximise their goodness, keep these tips in mind:
• Avoid overcooking, as it reduces nutrients and alters taste and texture.
• After cooking, cool greens quickly in ice water to lock in their vibrant colour and retain nutrients.
Steaming is one of the best ways to preserve the natural colours, nutrients, and flavours of your food. The Thermomix® TM7 Varoma® takes this to the next level, offering up to 45% more volume with the tray compared to the TM6 Varoma®. Effortlessly prepare vibrant vegetables, tender meats, and delicate fish while maintaining their nutritional value. You can even create a complete meal by steaming ingredients alongside cooking another dish in the simmering basket – saving time and bringing fresh vitality to your plate.
Warm colours like yellow and orange not only bring warmth, positive energy and creativity to your mood, but provide a healthy dose of carotenoids – natural pigments with antioxidant powers. Among them is the famous beta carotene, which converts to vitamin A to support healthy vision, skin, and cellular renewal. Found in foods like carrots, pumpkin, mango, papaya, peaches, and turmeric, these food are typically also rich in vitamin C to boost immunity, improve iron absorption, and speed up wound healing. Colour, flavour and health – all in one!
Though blue and purple may be rare in nature, they’re nothing short of extraordinary. From blueberries and blackberries to aubergines, purple grapes, red cabbage, and figs, these vibrant foods are packed with anthocyanins – powerful antioxidants with anti-inflammatory properties. They’re as rich in flavour as they are in benefits, supporting your nervous system, promoting heart health, and helping to regulate blood sugar levels. A colourful way to nourish the body and mind!
