Orange and Yellow fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamin C and carotenoids, including beta-carotene. Some carotenoids, most notably beta-carotene, convert to vitamin A within the body, which helps promote healthy vision and cell growth.
Citrus fruits, like oranges, contain a unique phytonutrient called herperidin, which helps to increase blood flow. This has important health ramifications. If you tend to get cold hands and feet, eating an orange a day may help to keep your hands and feet warm.
Two of the most notable carotenoids in orange and yellow foods are lutein and zeaxanthin. These fat-soluble antioxidants have been heavily studied for their ability to help protect the health of your eyes. In fact, they accumulate in the retina of your eyes, where they prevent cataracts and diseases like age-related macular degeneration — the leading cause of blindness around the world. They also protect your eyes from damage caused by blue light emitted from phone, computer, and television screens.
Examples of Healthy Orange and Yellow Foods to Try
- Oranges
- Grapefruit
- Lemons
- Mango
- Papayas
- Carrot
- Yellow summer squash
- Corn
- Cantaloupe
- Orange and yellow peppers
- Golden beets
- Pineapple
- Peaches
- Banana
