There's Power In Purple
Purple is said to combine the calm stability of blue and the fierce energy of red. The color purple is often associated with royalty, nobility, luxury, power, and ambition. Purple also represents meanings of wealth, extravagance, creativity, wisdom, dignity, grandeur, devotion, peace, pride, mystery, independence, and magic. It is also often associated with spirituality, the sacred, higher self, passion, fulfillment, and vitality.
Not only that, but purple hued fruits and veggies are some of the most nutrient-dense foods available to us. Purple foods contain important nutrients called anthocyanins, which are responsible for the blue, red, and of course purple colours of some fruits and vegetables. As an antioxidant, anthocyanin protects against cell damage from free radicals and has also been shown to protect against H. Pylori, the bacteria that promotes the formation of stomach ulcers and urinary tract infections. In addition to its anti-aging properties, Delphinol®, a concentrated antioxidant rich in delphinidins, has been shown to stabilize and improve sugar metabolism, act as a natural anti-inflammatory with cardiovascular benefits, and even increase tear production to combat dry eye syndrome. The benefits of antioxidants are vast, and are highlighted in a bit more detail below…
Nutritional Benefits
Super Maqui™ (Aristotelia chilensis): Considered to be the most powerful antioxidant superfruit, Aristotelia chilensis is incredibly rich in polyphenols, anthocyanins, delphinidins, and other vital nutrients. According to the USDA's ORAC database, the Chilean fruit contains 7x more antioxidant value than acai berries and 9x more than goji berries. The delphinidins in the Super Maqui™ berry are highly effective at neutralizing free-radicals, which are agents that age the body, helping us combat the symptoms that come with aging, and prevents the development of cancer cells.
Red cabbage: One of the top vitamin C rich foods on the planet, red cabbage is a master immune booster, and also effectively fights against free-radical damage. Red cabbage also boasts a prominent serving of anti-inflammatory phytonutrients, as well as high levels of vitamin K, which aids in the healthy formation of bones and teeth, and reduces the risk of osteoporosis. Red cabbage is also a mega-player in proper digestion, helping facilitate the population of healthy bacteria in the gut, as well as bowel regularity.
Beets: Beets contain a number of important substances, including betaine, fiber, betacyanin, betanin, and pectin, all of which aid in detoxification and digestion. Beets are also very high in vitamin C and have been shown to inhibit the formation of free-radicals, aid in the prevention of lung, liver, skin, spleen, and colon cancer, and decrease levels of homocysteine, a substance that when found in excess in the body has been linked to cardiovascular disease, stroke, migraines, and dementia. Beets contain a number of essential minerals like potassium (essential for healthy nerve and muscle function) and manganese (which is good for your bones, liver, kidneys, and pancreas), as well as the B vitamin folate, which helps reduce the risk of birth defects.
Red kale: Like regular kale, purple kale contains various phytonutrients including glucoraphanin, gluconasturtiin, and glucobrassicin. These compounds support liver function and aid in detoxification, by facilitating healthy digestive pathways. Kale also contains compounds that decrease inflammation. More specifically though, a serving of red kale gives you 260 percent of the daily value for vitamin A and 170 percent of the DV for vitamin C. Along with the phytonutrients lutein and zeaxanthin, which are also found in generous amounts in kale, vitamin A supports healthy eyesight, especially as you age. The lutein in kale has potential benefits for heart health by preventing plaque formation in the arteries.
Blueberries, blackberries, and raspberries: All three of these berries are rich sources of antioxidant vitamin C, vitamin K, and manganese. Research has found that dark-hued berried may protect against heart disease, as well as improve memory, balance, and coordination. All three berries contain anthocyanins and another phytochemical called quercetin, found to help slow cancer growth, and have all been shown to help control blood sugar in diabetics and help prevent liver damage.
Dark cherries: Cherries contain powerful antioxidants like anthocyanins and cyaniding, as well as a small amount of quercetin, which is among the most potent in terms of antioxidant activity and a wide range of other health-promoting properties, including cancer prevention. Cherries contain natural melatonin, aiding in more restful sleep, as well as a diminishment of inflammation and associated oxidative stress. Because of their anti-inflammatory properties, cherries have also been linked to exercise recovery.
Dark cherries: Cherries contain powerful antioxidants like anthocyanins and cyaniding, as well as a small amount of quercetin, which is among the most potent in terms of antioxidant activity and a wide range of other health-promoting properties, including cancer prevention. Cherries contain natural melatonin, aiding in more restful sleep, as well as a diminishment of inflammation and associated oxidative stress. Because of their anti-inflammatory properties, cherries have also been linked to exercise recovery.
Chia seeds: Boasting an ideal balance of essential fatty acids omega 3, 6, and 9’s, chia seeds aid in inflammation regulation and muscle function. They also contain all 8 essential amino acids needed for proper tissue growth and maintenance – some seriously attractive features for all you athletes out there (and everyone really). Even more alluring is that chia seeds are also loaded with magnesium, calcium, and potassium, all of which are needed for muscle contraction, relaxation, and electrolyte balance.
Coconut cream/milk: Coconut-based products (oil, cream/milk, flour, chips etc.) in their whole natural form are one of the best immune boosters thanks to their antiviral, antifungal, antibacterial, and anti-parasitic properties. Coconut is also high in antioxidants and can improve skin and hair. Not only that, but coconut is super-packed with vitamins and minerals (calcium, magnesium etc.) that are integral for bone and teeth health, and the healthy fats diminish blood sugar imbalances while keeping you satiated and energized for longer.
Purple Power Smoothie
*Makes one serving
Ingredients
- 1 cup frozen berries (blueberries, raspberries, blackberries)
- ½ cup frozen dark cherries
- ¼ cup chopped red cabbage (raw)
- ¼ cup peeled and chopped beets (raw)
- ½ cup chopped and packed red kale
- 2 tbsp chia seeds
- 1 cup coconut milk/cream
- 1 Super Maqui™ capsule, opened and sprinkled in
- Filtered water to desired thickness
Directions
- Combine all ingredients in a high powered blender and blend until smooth.
- For a thicker smoothie (or smoothie bowl) use thicker coconut cream (think the fluffy stuff at the top), and less water.
- For a more liquidy consistency, use a thinner coconut milk and/or more water.
Enjoy immediately following blending for optimal flavour and nutrient density!
Ellie Shortt had a long history of struggling with personal health. From growing up with frequent sinus infections and strep throat to being put on a regular rotation of antibiotics. Various health problems followed her into her 20s when she decided to take a hard look at her diet and make a change. She left a career in journalism to pursue her true calling as a Natural Therapy Practitioner (NPT). As an NPT, Ellie follows a holistic approach to health and wellness. NPTs look at the whole, not just isolated parts to determine underlying causes of more recognizable symptoms. Because of this, they are able to get to the root of the issue for long-term sustainable wellness success. Follow her Instagram: @ellieshortt
