Have you ever been encouraged to “eat the rainbow”? This isn’t just a fun catchphrase – it’s an easy and effective strategy to ensure a nutritious, well-rounded diet. The vibrant colours found in fruits, vegetables, and other natural foods are indicators of essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and phytochemicals that play a key role in promoting health. Each colour group brings its own unique set of benefits, from strengthening immunity to enhancing brain function and supporting heart health. In Nigeria, where our meals are often rich in a variety of colorful ingredients, understanding the significance of food colors can guide us in making healthier dietary choices.
The Science Behind Food Colours. The natural pigments responsible for the colours in fruits and vegetables are known as phytochemicals. These plant-based compounds provide various health benefits, including protection against inflammation, oxidative stress, and chronic diseases. Below is a breakdown of the primary color groups and their associated nutrients:
Red (Lycopene, Anthocyanins) – Supports heart health and skin protection.
Orange and Yellow (Beta-carotene, Vitamin C) – Enhances immune function and vision.
Green (Chlorophyll, Vitamin K, Folate) – Promotes detoxification and bone strength.
Blue and Purple (Anthocyanins, Flavonoids) – Improves brain health and reduces aging effects.
White and Brown (Allicin, Polyphenols, Fiber) – Supports immune function and digestion.
Nutritional Benefits Of Various Color Groups In Nigerian Cuisine
- Red Foods – cardiovascular and skin health
Sources: Tomatoes, red bell peppers, hibiscus (zobo), watermelon.
Nutrients: Lycopene, anthocyanins, vitamin C.
Health Benefits:
Reduces the risk of heart disease.
Protects the skin from sun damage.
Supports a healthy immune system.
- Orange an yellow foods – vision and immunity
Sources: Carrots, pawpaw, yellow peppers, corn, mango.
Nutrients: Beta-carotene (Vitamin A), flavonoids, vitamin C.
Health Benefits:
Enhances eye health.
Strengthens the immune system.
Aids in skin repair and regeneration.
- Green Foods – Detoxification and bone health
Sources: Ugu (fluted pumpkin leaves), ewedu, spinach, bitter leaf, green peppers, okra.
Nutrients: Chlorophyll, folate, vitamin K, fiber.
Health Benefits:
Helps the body eliminate toxins.
Strengthens bones and teeth.
Improves digestive health.
- Blue and Purple Foods – Brain and cognitive health
Sources: Garden egg (eggplant), zobo leaves, African purple cabbage.
Nutrients: Anthocyanins, resveratrol, fiber.
Health Benefits:
Protects against cognitive decline.
Slows the aging process.
Helps reduce high blood pressure.
- White and Brown Foods – immunity and digestive health
Sources: Garlic, onions, mushrooms, yam, beans, millet, brown rice.
Nutrients: Allicin, polyphenols, fiber.
Health Benefits:
Strengthens immune function.
Supports gut health and digestion.
Helps regulate blood sugar levels.
Practical Ways To Incorporate More Colours Into Nigerian Meals
Incorporating more colorful foods into your diet does not have to be complicated. Below are some simple strategies to enhance the nutrient density of daily meals:
Diversify rice dishes – Add carrots, bell peppers, peas, and tomatoes to jollof or fried rice.
Boost stews and soups – Include green leafy vegetables, tomatoes, and carrots for added nutrients.
Increase fruit intake – Enjoy a mix of pawpaw, bananas, watermelon, and mango as snacks.
Experiment with smoothies – Blend zobo, banana, and mango for a nutrient-rich drink.
Recipe: Rainbow Vegetable Sauce
This Rainbow Vegetable Sauce is a colorful, nutrient-dense meal that pairs well with rice, yam, or plantains.
Ingredients:
2 tablespoons palm oil or vegetable oil
1 red bell pepper (chopped)
1 yellow bell pepper (chopped)
1 green bell pepper (chopped)
1 small onion (chopped)
1 cup ugu or spinach (chopped)
1 small carrot (grated)
1 teaspoon garlic (minced)
1 cup shredded chicken or fish (optional)
1 seasoning cube
Salt and pepper to taste
Instructions:
Heat oil in a pan and sauté onions and garlic for about a minute.
Add the chopped red, yellow, and green bell peppers and stir-fry for three minutes.
Stir in the grated carrots and shredded chicken or fish, seasoning with salt, pepper, and a seasoning cube.
Finally, add the ugu or spinach and cook for an additional two minutes.
Serve warm with rice, yam, or boiled plantains.
