Colorful Foods for a Healthy Diet

Certain days on the lunar day is highlighted by colorful eating. On Lunar Calendar Day 24, we focus on using all colors in our meals. On Day 24, we include Dairy, fermented Dairy, Wine and Cheese. Not bad. Here’s a listing of colored foods and a one day menu to get your creative menu juices flowing! Enjoy and let me know how you fared with the recipes.

Here’s a list of 10 foods for each color, all commonly found in whole food, healthy diets:

Green Foods

Spinach, broccoli, and cucumbers are examples of green foods. They are often rich in chlorophyll, fiber, and essential vitamins like A, C, and K. They’re known for their detoxifying properties and their ability to support liver function, bone health, and immune function. Green foods also contain folate and antioxidants, which can help reduce inflammation and support cellular repair. They’re commonly linked to heart health and are thought to aid in cleansing the body of toxins with the Liver.

  1. Spinach
  2. Kale
  3. Broccoli
  4. Avocado
  5. Zucchini
  6. Green bell peppers
  7. Asparagus
  8. Cucumber
  9. Green beans
  10. Brussels sprouts

Blue/Purple/Black Foods

These foods—such as blueberries, eggplant, and blackberries—are packed with powerful antioxidants called anthocyanins. They help combat oxidative stress. They also support brain health. Blue and purple foods are often linked to improved memory. They contribute to heart health and cancer prevention. They can also help maintain healthy blood vessels and reduce inflammation. Black foods like black rice and black beans are especially rich in fiber and can support digestive health.

  1. Blueberries
  2. Blackberries
  3. Purple cabbage
  4. Eggplant
  5. Black beans
  6. Purple sweet potatoes
  7. Black rice
  8. Plums
  9. Purple carrots
  10. Figs (purple-skinned)

Red Foods

Red foods like tomatoes, beets, and strawberries are typically high in lycopene, anthocyanins, and vitamin C. They’re well-known for their cardiovascular benefits. They also have the potential to reduce the risk of cancer. Additionally, they can boost skin health by helping blood circulation to nourish the skin. Red foods are linked to blood and heart health. They support circulation and reduce blood pressure.

  1. Tomatoes – Peeled and de-seeded to reduce lectins
  2. Strawberries
  3. Red bell peppers
  4. Beets
  5. Raspberries
  6. Watermelon
  7. Red cabbage
  8. Radishes
  9. Cherries
  10. Red apples

White Foods

White foods, including cauliflower, garlic, and onions, are often rich in compounds like allicin and potassium. These compounds support immune health. They also reduce inflammation. Known for their anti-microbial properties, many white foods help promote gut health and balance blood pressure. White foods are often linked to bone health and immune support. They provide essential minerals for cellular repair. They also reduce the risk of chronic diseases.

  1. Cauliflower
  2. Garlic
  3. Onions
  4. Mushrooms
  5. White beans
  6. Potatoes (white-fleshed)
  7. Parsnips
  8. Daikon radish
  9. Jicama
  10. Coconut (flesh)

Yellow Foods

Yellow foods like yellow peppers, squash, and lemons are high in vitamin C. They contain carotenoids like beta-carotene. These nutrients are excellent for boosting immune function, promoting eye health, and improving skin vitality. These foods often support digestion and improve energy levels, making them especially beneficial for immune health and fighting infections. They’re commonly linked helping protect the skin from UV damage.

  1. Yellow bell peppers
  2. Pineapple
  3. Yellow squash
  4. Corn
  5. Golden beets
  6. Yellow carrots
  7. Mango
  8. Bananas
  9. Lemons
  10. Yellow tomatoes

Each color provides a range of nutrients and antioxidants, making them a great addition to a balanced, whole-food diet!


Here’s a Colorful Menu for Day 24. Enjoy!


Breakfast

Veggie & Cheese Omelet

  • Green: Sautéed spinach.
  • Blue: Blackberries on the side.
  • Red: Diced red bell peppers inside the omelet.
  • White: Sliced mushrooms and shredded mozzarella cheese.
  • Yellow: Eggs, scrambled with a dash of turmeric for extra color.

Sides:

  • A couple of slices of avocado for added healthy fats.

Lunch

Greek Salad with Grilled Halloumi

  • Green: Romaine lettuce and sliced cucumber.
  • Blue: Kalamata olives (black olives).
  • Red: Roasted red beets, cubed.
  • White: Grilled halloumi cheese.
  • Yellow: Yellow bell pepper, diced.

Dressing:

  • Lemon-olive oil dressing with a pinch of oregano and a sprinkle of sea salt.

Add-On:

  • Top with a small amount of avocado or a few roasted pine nuts for extra healthy fats.

Snack

Cheese & Veggie Plate

  • Green: Sliced cucumber rounds.
  • Blue: Blueberries.
  • Red: Sliced radishes.
  • White: Cubes of cheddar cheese.
  • Yellow: Slices of yellow bell pepper.

Optional:

  • A small handful of almonds for an extra boost of protein and healthy fat.

Dinner

Grilled Salmon with Roasted Veggies & Parmesan

  • Green: Roasted Brussels sprouts with a sprinkle of Parmesan cheese.
  • Blue: Sautéed purple cabbage, shredded.
  • Red: Roasted cherry tomatoes.
  • White: Cauliflower, lightly roasted with garlic.
  • Yellow: Summer squash, roasted.

Main:

  • Grilled salmon fillet with a squeeze of lemon and a dash of Maldon Sea Salt.

Garnish:

  • Fresh dill and lemon zest for added flavor.

Dessert

Low-Sugar Ricotta & Berry Bowl with Himalayan Pink Salt

  • Green: Diced kiwi.
  • Blue: Blackberries.
  • Red: Pomegranate seeds (use sparingly for lower carbs).
  • White: Ricotta cheese mixed with a hint of vanilla extract.
  • Yellow: A few slices of fresh pineapple.

Topping:

  • A light sprinkle of Himalayan Pink Salt over the ricotta and fruit.

This colorful menu maintains a colorful array of foods. It includes healthy fats and fiber to keep you satisfied throughout the day. Enjoy the vibrant flavors!


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