We are sure that at some point in life, everyone has heard someone say "Eat your fruits and vegetables". Have you ever really stopped to think why? A diet rich in fruits and vegetables has so many benefits. People who eat more fruits and vegetables are likely to have less risk of chronic diseases, including stroke, heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers. Fruits and vegetables provide essential vitamins and minerals, fiber, and other substances that are so important for good health. There is the added bonus of being naturally low in fat and calories as well as filling which will help maintain a healthy weight. So why don't we eat more of them?
The average American eats just three servings of fruit and veggies a day (French fries probably don't count!) However, the latest dietary guidelines call for five to thirteen servings (or two to six and a half cups) a day. The federal government's "5 A Day" campaign has been changed to "Fruits and Veggies: More Matters" in an effort to get Americans to eat more of the food that contributes to better health.
Fall is a perfect time of year to add more fruits and veggies to your family's diet. Visit your local farmer's market to check out the summer's bounty. Remember to think color because fruits and vegetables of different colors give your body a wider range of valuable nutrients. And be sure to try something new.
It shouldn't be too difficult to add more of the good stuff to your daily food intake. Do it for you and your family. Research has suggested that children who see their parents eat more fruits and vegetables will likely do the same. Try these tips to fit more fruits and vegetables into your day:
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Keep fruit out where you can see it. You will be more likely to eat it if you see it.
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Eat some fruit or vegetables at every meal, every day. Bonus points if you get some at snack time, too.
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Explore the produce aisle and choose something new. Variety is the key to a healthy diet so don't get into a rut with the same old thing.
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Forget about the potatoes and choose other vegetables with more nutrients.
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Make it a meal. Try some new recipes where vegetables are the main attraction.
Check out the following websites for more information on the value of eating more fruits and vegetables. There is also a link to local farmers' markets.
http://dhs.wisconsin.gov/health/physicalactivity/F&V/brand.HTM Http://www.cdc.gov/nccdphp/dnpa/nutrition/nutrition_for_everyone/fruits_vegetables/index.htm
http://www.ecommandos.com/farmers-markets.htm
