It’s no coincidence that February is the ultimate RED Month – American Heart Month, Valentine’s Day, and National Cherry Month. It’s a month to celebrate eating RED with one of today’s hottest RED super fruits, tart cherries.

In fact, red foods and fruits contain powerful phytonutrients that are not only responsible for their bright red color, but also may help protect your heart. It’s these naturally functional foods with inherent, added benefits that Americans crave for better health.

• Tart cherries: Tart cherries’ bright red color comes from anthocyanins, powerful antioxidants researchers have attributed to the fruit’s unique health properties, from anti-inflammatory and heart-health benefits, to reduced post-exercise muscle and joint pain.

• Tomatoes: Lycopene is the phytonutrient that gives tomatoes their red coloring.  Research shows that women with the highest intake of tomato-based foods have greater protection against heart disease. Tomatoes are also a good source of potassium and vitamin C, which adds to their heart-healthy appeal.

• Red Cabbage: Similar to tart cherries, red cabbage also contains anthocyanins. They’re also a good source of vitamin c, which a recent study suggests may help people with heart failure live

Disclosure: I enjoy working with the folks at the Cherry Marketing Institute.