The color green comes from the plant pigment chlorophyll. Some foods, such as dark leafy greens, pistachios, peas, cucumbers and celery, also contain a carotenoid lutein, while broccoli, kale and cabbage are full of indoles and isothiocyanates, which stimulate enzymes and help the liver eliminate cancerous compounds. Green foods contain a lot of iron, calcium, potassium and vitamins K, A and C.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, green is the color of wood and promotes liver and gallbladder function. A lack of this element makes us unadaptable, stubborn or even aggressive.

The color red comes from the antioxidants lycopene and anthocyanin. The first one is found in tomatoes, watermelons, pink grapefruit, red cabbage, red beans and red peppers, while the second one is found in fruits, such as strawberries, raspberries and red grapes. Red foods affect the heart and strengthen the immune system. We absorb these antioxidants better by gently cooking the foods.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, red represents Fire. At the level of emotion, fire means joy, enthusiasm and openness.

Beta-carotene is an orange pigment that is most efficiently converted into vitamin A or retinol. Provitamin A absorption is very much dependent on lipids, as they are only soluble in fats, which is why it is a good idea to consume healthy sources of fat. Vitamin A is responsible for the health of the eyes, the immune system, the skin and the bones. Yellow foods contain vitamin C, which protects cells against viruses and bacteria. Yellow or orange foods include wheats, lemons, yellow pepper, melons, pineapple, carrots, apricots, yellow peppers …

According to traditional Chinese medicine, yellow is the color of Earth and is important for the spleen and the stomach, while the emotion that ties to it is care – for ourselves and for others. If we are in need of the Earth element, we lack compassion or are excessively careless.

White to lightly yellow foods get their color from pigments that belong to the group of flavonoids, which are antioxidant in nature and can be found in cauliflower, bananas, onions, garlic, portobello mushrooms, potatoes, turnips and parsnips. The strong aroma of the garlic is due to allicin that is also known for its antiviral and antibacterial properties.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, white is the color of metal and is great for the lungs and the colon. White foods help fight sad thoughts.

The color black affects the kidneys, strengthens the spleen and liver, relaxes muscles and promotes blood flow. Dark blue and purple food, such as black mushrooms, walnuts, black sesame seeds, cumin, plums, black grapes, seaweed, chestnuts, black beans and black rice work preventively. Black rice contains a lot of beneficial proteins, amino acids and micronutrients, such as iron, calcium, manganese and zinc.

According to traditional Chinese medicine, black is the color of water. It affects the kidneys, which are a source of life. Black foods contain a lot of microelements which help alleviate anxiety, fear and depression.