Purple foods may have several health benefits, including reducing the risk of heart disease and cataracts.

Purple-colored foods include various fruits and vegetables, such as eggplants and grapes.

Eating the rainbow involves eating a variety of fruits and vegetables, including purple foods. Setting an intention to add purple produce to meals may encourage people to try new foods and make their diet healthier.

The purple color of fruits and vegetables indicates a rich antioxidant content, which may help to improve overall health and prevent health conditions, including heart disease, stroke, and cancer.

Keep reading to learn about the health benefits of purple fruits and vegetables.

An example of purple foods with purple Share on Pinterest
Carolyn Lagattuta/Stocksy

Purple fruits and vegetables are a nutritious addition to a healthy diet for many people, which can have physiological and psychological benefits. Increased intake of fruits and vegetables may help to lower the risk of health conditions such as obesity, cataracts, and heart disease.

Purple foods contain anthocyanins, which are antioxidants that prevent and repair cellular damage. They are natural plant pigments that cause red and blue colors in certain plants. Antioxidants may help to prevent cancer, heart conditions, and neurological conditions. They may also protect against radiation, pathogens, and stress conditions.

The purple color of plants also attracts bees and butterflies, which follow visual cues such as color. Anthocyanins have a protective effect on the plant, helping to prevent damage from the sun and cold temperatures.

Eating purple foods rich in anthocyanins may be particularly beneficial for people consuming a high-fat diet, which can lead to obesity. According to a 2017 animal study, consuming a high-fat diet that includes purple potatoes or carrots may offer metabolic and heart benefits. However, human studies are necessary to confirm these benefits.

Purple fruits and vegetables may also help people think more clearly and calmly. A 2019 review suggests that purple foods high in polyphenol have a positive impact on cognitive functioning. Polyphenols are plant-based antioxidants.

Here are some purple fruits that may help to improve health.

  • Purple grapes: Purple grapes contain phytonutrients that may help prevent cancer cell growth, reduce cholesterol, and lower platelet aggregation.
  • Blackberries: Blackberries may improve digestive health, promote fat loss, and reduce inflammation. They are also a good source of vitamin A, C, and K. Blueberries could also improve mental function and are a good source of fiber.
  • Blackcurrants: Blackcurrants are rich in anthocyanins and could have a positive effect on cholesterol levels and vision.
  • Blueberries: This blue-purple fruit is rich in polyphenols, including flavonoids and phenolic acids. Blueberries could have mood-boosting properties and may alleviate inflammation.
  • Concord grape juice: Concord grape juice may have a positive effect on spatial memory, reaction time, and memory function. It may also help to increase calmness.
  • Figs: This Mediterranean fruit is beneficial for digestive, respiratory, and reproductive health. Figs also help reduce body fat, lower inflammation, and prevent cancer.
  • Plums: Plums contain antioxidants that improve bone health, enhance digestion, and reduce inflammation. They also help reduce blood pressure and blood sugar levels.
  • Acai berries: Acai berries could improve cognitive function, heart health, and cholesterol levels.

Purple vegetables are packed with vitamins and offer many health benefits.

  • Beetroot: Beetroots have anti-inflammatory properties. They may also help lower blood pressure and improve heart health. Beetroots may also prevent cancer, improve digestion, and enhance gut health.
  • Red cabbage: This bright purple vegetable may help prevent diseases, including cancer. Red cabbage can also lower inflammation linked to cardiovascular disease.
  • Purple corn: Purple corn may help prevent diabetes and certain types of cancer. It can also boost weight loss, reduce inflammation, and improve vision.
  • Purple potato: Purple potatoes may help reduce inflammation and lower the risk of colon cancer.
  • Purple sweet potato: The strong antioxidant activity of purple sweet potatoes is due to their high anthocyanin content. The vegetable may help to reduce inflammation and increase immunity.
  • Purple carrot: Purple carrots are rich in phytonutrients, including anthocyanin. Purple carrots also have high levels of alpha and beta carotene, which may boost immunity and improve eye health.
  • Eggplant: Eggplants are rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals, including ascorbic acid, phenolics, and flavonoids. Its polyphenol content may help prevent liver damage. Eggplant may also help improve inflammatory conditions, such as bronchitis and asthma.

Purple fruits and vegetables are safe for most people consuming them in moderate quantities. They contain carbohydrates, which could become unhealthy in large quantities.

However, the complex carbohydrates in purple foods are generally healthful and a good alternative to refined carbohydrates, such as white rice.

Purple fruits and vegetables offer a wealth of benefits and can add variety to a healthy diet. Purple produce provides vitamins, minerals, and fiber.

Purple fruits and vegetables are high in anthocyanin, which has a positive effect on brain health, inflammation, and heart disease. Purple foods may also enhance calmness and boost mood, giving people a few more reasons to add them to their meal plan.