The power of purple food
Updated: Jul 4, 2019
You may have heard blueberries are so good for us because they contain anthocyanins – a flavonoid that gives them their bluish-purple colour. Anthocyanins are wonderful because of their antioxidant activity – they help to mop up harmful molecules protecting us from chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, neuro-degenerative diseases and diabetes.
Another way to get this amazing flavonoid is by eating black rice – also known as forbidden rice – which is particularly delicious when made into a Thai black sticky rice pudding. It's kid-approved in my household. There are countless recipes out there so Google away! For a healthier version, reduce the sugar.
Black rice is also high in fibre and a good source of thiamin (B1), niacin (B3), vitamin E, iron, magnesium and phosphorus.
Anthocyanins can also be found in black and red raspberries, blackberries, blackcurrant, cherries, eggplant peel and red cabbage.
