Purple traditionally symbolizes royalty; blue, trust. But in
such foods as blueberries, plums, purple cabbage, black
currants, eggplant and purple grapes, these hues represent a
vision of good health. An analysis of the latest data from the
National Health and Nutrition Examination Study (NHANES), a
survey of eating and health habits, found that adults who eat
purple and blue fruits and vegetables have reduced risk for both
high blood pressure and low HDL cholesterol (the “good” kind);
they are also less likely to be overweight. Scientists believe
that anthocyanins, compounds that give purple foods their color,
are responsible for these boons. These compounds mop up free
radicals and soothe inflammation. Currently, purple and blue
foods make up only 3 percent of the average American’s fruit and
vegetable intake, so aim to eat more.