Eat Your Vegetables and Fruits
“Eat your vegetables!” – we’ve all heard that. But just how many vegetables and fruits do you need to eat, each day, for optimal health? Let’s talk about it.
Only 1 in 10 adults eats enough fruits and vegetables everyday!
Fruits and vegetables are key to good health as they are loaded with vitamins, minerals and fiber, and are low in fat and calories.
Eating a diet filled with colorful fruits and veggies will reduce cholesterol levels and blood pressure, boost your immune system, improve the health of your blood vessels, and optimize your gut health.
Eating enough fruits and vegetables will reduce your risk of:
- heart disease
- stroke
- cardiovascular disease
- cancer
- premature death
Experts suggest eating 10 servings of fruits and vegetables everyday for optimal health. If you aren’t eating anywhere near that amount, START WITH 5 SERVINGS a day and work your way up to 10.
A serving includes a medium apple or banana, 1 cup of leafy greens, 1 cup fresh or frozen raspberries or blueberries, 1/2 cup fresh, frozen or canned vegetables, 5 medium mushrooms, or 1/2 c of vegetable juice.
Plan your meals to include more of fruits and veggies:
- Add blueberries and raspberries to your oatmeal
- Include mushrooms and spinach with your scrambled eggs or omelet
- Snack on a banana or apple
- Opt for a kale or spinach side salad with your sandwich
- Steam broccoli, and roast sweet potato with your salmon dinner.
In general, half of your plate should be filled with fruits and vegetables. Improve your health, and lengthen your life by eating more fruits and vegetables.
by Christy Coughlin, Wellness Coach