“Welcome to the home of Prince, one of the greatest musicians of all time,” the tour guide said with a smile, “I have been working here at Paisley Park in the beautiful city of Chanhassen, Minnesota, for five years now, and I can assure you it is an unbelievably wonderful place. Your tour includes exquisitely kept and immaculate gardens. When the sun shines on it, the windows of the main building take on a shimmering violet shade, and together with the singing birds, you will experience a truly enchanting atmosphere. Inside you will see the artwork, stage sets, and other objects preserved from Prince’s career, which will astound you. Every area of the park, from its recording studio to its dance hall and private suites, serves as a brilliant reminder of Prince’s mastery and lasting influence. I’ll return shortly to start the tour.”

Annie and LJ listened attentively while standing in line.

“It is unbelievable that we made it here,” LJ said in admiration. “Prince was an amazing musician, and his music moved so many people. His effect on the world is unmistakable. He was a musical genius.”

Annie smiled at LJ. “He was genuinely inspirational. You’ve been a big fan for so long. As soon as I got the notification about ticket sales, I immediately bought two online.

“Thanks, babes, being here means a lot. I heard we’re going to pass through the violet-hued atrium. All this purple brings back memories of an article about the significance of purple foods.”

“Wait. What? LJ, are you suggesting that Prince liked purple food too?”

“Actually, I don’t know, but I bet he wouldn’t have been opposed to eating purple produce because they contain anthocyanins, a naturally occurring plant pigment. Research points to them as helping improve brain health, reduce inflammation, and protect against cancer and heart disease. I won’t be surprised if we see plum trees here because plums might have been his favorite fruit.”

“Okay, LJ,” Annie said wryly. “I love plums and also like purple tomatoes that happen to be rich in Vitamins C and K and dietary fiber. They are an excellent source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. Studies show that eating purple tomatoes can reduce internal inflammation.

Internal inflammation is the body’s way of fighting off foreign invaders such as viruses, bacteria, and toxins. White blood cells are sent to the affected area to combat the invader, which can lead to pain, swelling, redness, and warmth. However, when inflammation persists for too long, the immune system stays on high alert and produces excessive pro-inflammatory cytokines that may cause damage to the body’s tissues and organs. Long-term inflammation has been linked to many diseases like coronary artery disease, stroke, atherosclerosis, type 2 diabetes, certain cancers like colorectal, breast, and prostate cancer, and autoimmune disorders including lupus, rheumatoid arthritis, and multiple sclerosis.“

LJ nodded in agreement. “That’s why I’m a big fan of royal fruits and veggies. Eating them helps reduce the risk of internal infections and provides a great source of antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds. I planted purple sweet potatoes this year for that very reason, plus they contain beta-carotene, Vitamin C, and dietary fiber, which supports gut health. I’m also a big fan of your Sweet Potato and Cabbage Pad Thai dish – purple sweet potatoes and purple Cabbage make a great combination!”

“Thanks, sweetheart. Purple Cabbage is a healthy source of fiber and antioxidants. I saw a recipe I want to try using purple asparagus and purple carrots. Both provide health benefits that help reduce and prevent internal inflammation. Plus, roasting carrots brings out their sweetness. This 30-minute roasted asparagus and carrots recipe looks beautiful, tastes delicious, and only requires four ingredients; carrots, asparagus, EVOO, and salt.”

“That sounds interesting. Let’s plan to make that when we get home,” mused LJ.

The tour guide approached the line. “We are getting close to starting time. We start the tour in five minutes.” You’ll see the music club and recording studios still used today by other musicians and Prince’s personal recording spaces. It is an understatement to say he had a unique approach to making music, and you’ll get a firsthand account from musicians who collaborated with him.

“I’m so excited, but let’s wrap up our purple food convo. Including more purple and deep-colored fruits and veggies in our diets will help prevent the beginnings of inflammation. I’m switching from green grapes to purple ones once we get home. The anthocyanins in purple grapes are known to reduce inflammation. It’s also important to include foods that contain omega-3 fatty acids. Eating fish, nuts, and seeds helps reduce inflammation. Additionally, regular physical exercise and mindfulness practices, such as yoga and meditation, can help reduce stress and improve physical and mental health.

Annie nodded thoughtfully, “Totally agree. We’re going to add more purple foods to our diet mindfully. I’m going to ask the tour guide about Prince’s diet. I bet he ate purple.

LJ smiled, “Purple foods are really healthy and can greatly impact our overall health. Now let’s get ready for the tour. Purple rain, purple rain.”

Annie and LJ are a fictional couple. Their storyline promotes healthy eating and earth-friendly practices.