Health Benefits of Orange and Yellow Fruits and Veggies

Orange and yellow fruits and veggies are usually colored by beta-carotene, which your body turns into vitamin A. These foods help keep your eyes and immune system healthy and can help reduce the risk of some cancers and heart disease. They also often contain vitamin C and folate as well. Lemons are a good source of vitamin C, which had been found to reduce the risk of death from all causes. Lemons have antibacterial properties and sucking on a fresh slice of lemon is a great way to banish bad breath. Squash contains over 20 essential nutrients, including vitamin C, B-complex, calcium, zinc, iron, folate, vitamin A, manganese and fiber. Vitamin A helps protect against heart disease, type 2 diabetes and lung cancer. Fiber helps move cancer-causing toxins out of the colon. Pineapple is a good source of vitamins A, B1 and B6, copper, fiber, and manganese, which helps the body break down fats, carbohydrates, and proteins. Pineapples are also full of antioxidants, which help protect against age-related eye problems and support the immune system. They also contain an enzyme that’s anti-inflammatory properties have been used to treat athletic injuries, digestive problems, sinusitis, phlebitis and surgery wounds. Sweet corn is a good source of vitamins B1 and B5, folate, manganese, and phosphorus, which is needed to build strong bones and teeth, helps kidneys eliminate waste, helps transmit nerve impulses, and helps keep energy levels stable. Corn also contains a carotenoid which may help reduce the risk of lung cancer. Some other examples of the orange and yellow group include: yellow apples, apricots, butternut squash, cantaloupe, carrots, grapefruit, mangoes, nectarines, oranges, papayas, peaches, pears, yellow peppers, persimmons, pumpkin, yellow summer or winter squash, sweet potatoes, tangerines, and yellow tomatoes.