Ugly Fruits and Vegetables - Good Health in Small Packages
We all love perfect form and aesthetically pleasing colors. We’re conditioned to believe that bigger, attractive produce is better, but in truth, ugly little fruits and vegetables are nutritionally more powerful. Smaller plant size yields greater concentrations of beneficial phytochemicals. These compounds greatly support human health, a fact that may require a bit of re-education regarding nutrition.
Phytochemicals are bioactive compounds that provide protection from the ravages of stress. Phytochemicals are not nutritious, but they ward off disease, even when consumed in small quantities. An example of a phytochemical is anthocyanin, found in red grapes. This flavonoid contributes to the deep color of the grape.
Examples of secondary phytochemicals include lycopene and carotenoids. Plants produce these compounds in order to survive. Plants that endure natural stresses such as dry conditions, or extreme heat and cold, don’t look the best, but they are simply better for us. In fact, plants grown in the wild, having survived natural hardships, don’t attract us, but they sure do pack more punch in flavor and nutrition.
We’ve neglected nature’s perfection in our efforts to cultivate perfect, eye catching produce. The use of fertilizers, pesticides, and abundant water in agriculture fails to provide us with sustainability, breaking our connection with all that is natural.
Fortunately, some scientists realize this and are developing a less traditional approach to growing produce. Two Texas A&M University scientists, Kevin Crosby and Daniel Leskovar, have developed the BetaSweet carrot and are working to provide us with foods that actually fortify health rather than just look good on display. They explain, “We stress the crop and see an increase of the carotenoids”.
Consider the fact that plants that look less than perfect are also easier on the environment. Before you reach for the best looking of the bunch, think about nature’s intelligence – if the birds and bees have figured it all out, so should we. As consumers, we have a responsibility to buy smarter.
Eat from the wild whenever possible. Berries are abundant in nature, rich in flavonoids and are shown to improve brain function and promote cellular growth. It’s also a good excuse to get out and reconnect with Mother Nature. Grow your own fruits and vegetables whenever possible, but remember to give them a challenge.
Knowledge and awareness helps us make food choices that have a positive effect on personal and environmental health; impacting our children and future generations. There’s no sacrifice and no risk: “it’s all good”.
Kathleen Blanchard is a Registered Nurse. For more health news and tips, visit her “Health Matters” blog.
Written by Kathleen Blanchard for Her Active Life. | Permalink | Have something to say? Add a Comment!
Section: Her Health, Her Nutrition, Diet Myths, Healthy Eating
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