Still full of pride

By SA Tripi

I have been an almost-vegan vegetarian for more than twenty years. Growing up, eating fruits and vegetables wasn’t something my parents had to enforce—it was simply part of everyday life. While there were a few foods I refused to touch as a child, my palate changed over time. Many of those once-dreaded vegetables are now among my favorites, and I enjoy preparing them myself.

In March 2006, I ate my last piece of meat. Looking at the chicken on my plate that day, I realized I simply didn’t want to eat it anymore. What began as an experiment soon became a lifestyle. I still cook meat for family and friends, and when everyone else enjoys burgers at a barbecue, I’m perfectly happy with a veggie burger.

This way of eating has been the right choice for me, although I recognize it isn’t for everyone. Regardless of whether you eat meat, a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains benefits nearly everyone. These foods provide vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants that support long-term health and help reduce the risk of many chronic diseases.

As Pride Month is celebrated, I thought it would be fun to look at the colorful fruits and vegetables that reflect the vibrant colors of the Pride flag. Pride has come to mean more to me as I have gotten to know and appreciate members of the LGBTQ+ community. Their resilience, courage, and commitment to equality are inspiring. At a time when many in our community are concerned about political and social challenges, celebrating Pride reminds us that diversity, inclusion, and hope remain powerful values worth protecting.

RED

  • Tomatoes
  • Watermelon
  • Red peppers
  • Apples
  • Red onions
  • Strawberries
  • Cherries

ORANGE & YELLOW

  • Tangerines
  • Carrots
  • Pumpkin
  • Yellow squash
  • Bananas
  • Yellow peppers
  • Apricots
  • Sweet potatoes
  • Papayas
  • Corn

GREEN

  • Lettuce
  • Green apples
  • Asparagus
  • Broccoli
  • Kale
  • Green beans
  • Spinach
  • Grapes
  • Brussels sprouts

BLUE

  • Blueberries
  • Blue plums
  • Concord grapes

PURPLE

  • Japanese or Hawaiian sweet potatoes
  • Eggplant
  • Purple cauliflower
  • Beets
  • Purple peppers
  • Blackberries
  • Prunes

Each color represents a unique combination of nutrients and beneficial plant compounds known as phytochemicals.

Red fruits and vegetables are rich in lycopene and anthocyanins, antioxidants associated with heart health and a lower risk of certain cancers. Tomatoes and watermelon are among the best-known sources of lycopene.

Orange and yellow produce contains beta-carotene, vitamin C, potassium, and other carotenoids that support healthy vision, skin, and immune function.

Green vegetables are nutritional powerhouses, supplying vitamins A, C, E, and K, along with folate, potassium, and fiber. They also provide lutein and zeaxanthin, nutrients that help protect eye health.

Blue and purple fruits and vegetables contain anthocyanins, pigments that have been linked to healthy aging, improved memory, cardiovascular health, and reduced inflammation.

Perhaps the greatest common denominator among nearly all fruits and vegetables is fiber—an essential nutrient found only in plant foods. Fiber supports digestive health, helps maintain healthy cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and promotes a feeling of fullness after meals.

No single fruit or vegetable can provide everything our bodies need, but eating a colorful variety every day is one of the simplest and most enjoyable ways to improve your health.

This Pride Month, celebrate the beauty of diversity—not only in our communities, but also on our plates.

Happy Pride month, every month, and here’s to living healthier, happier lives – with pride.

Sources:

• National Institutes of Health – Fact sheets on vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber.

• Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics – Position on vegetarian and plant-based diets.

• American Heart Association – Fruits, vegetables, and heart health guidance.

• U.S. Department of Agriculture – MyPlate nutrition recommendations.

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