You may have heard the popular adage “eat the rainbow” when referring to colorful fruits and vegetables. As it turns out, a plate packed full of color — and nutrients like carotenoids — may be an important factor in boosting women’s health. A study published by Nutritional Neuroscience investigated how diet can affect certain health conditions in women. Findings in the study indicated that pigmented carotenoids could slow common female health concerns like bone density loss, vision problems and cognitive deterioration.
CU Medicine provider Amy Keller, PhD reflected on the study in MedicalNewsToday, saying, “This review builds on decades of previous work conclusively showing that a diet high in fruits and vegetables — many of which contain carotenoids, responsible for some of the vivid colors of fruits and vegetables — is associated with healthy aging and longevity, and a lower risk of chronic disease.”
“The reasons why this is so are probably multifactorial, but possible reasons why carotenoids are beneficial are because of antioxidant and anti-inflammatory activity,” Keller added.
What are dietary carotenoids?
Dietary carotenoids are a plant chemical found in fruits, vegetables, algae and bacteria. They are mostly seen in bright red, orange and yellow hues. The most well-known dietary carotenoids are beta-carotene, lycopene, lutein and zeaxanthin.
Which fruits and vegetables contain carotenoids?
- Mangos
- Carrots
- Yams
- Papaya
- Bell Peppers
- Watermelon
- Kale
- Cantaloupe
- Sweet Potatoes
- Spinach
- Beets
- Tomatoes
- Oranges
In the study, Dr. Keller noted that future research should further explain the mechanisms underlying the clinical results. With the science still ongoing behind the correlation of brightly colored fruits and vegetables and women’s health, Dr. Keller and other researchers concluded that eating a diet with whole fruits and vegetables over supplementation is the best approach.
Looking for a brightly colored meal to incorporate carotenoids? Try this Shakshuka with Kale and Chickpeas recipe.
The CU Medicine Weight Management and Wellness clinic at Anschutz Health and Wellness Center offers scientific, evidence-based wellness strategies extended well beyond the walls of the Center to reach communities, transforming lives every step of the way.
Dr. Amy Keller is Assistant Professor of Medicine-Endocrinology/Metabolism/Diabetes at the University of Colorado School of Medicine.
This article was originally published by MedicalNewsToday.