
Are You Eating Fruits and Veggies?
According to a recent telephone survey we are eating even fewer fruits and vegetables than we were 10 years ago. And yet a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is essential for a healthy weight and prevention of heart disease, stroke, diabetes, cancers, and other health complications. The DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) diet includes 8-10 fruit and vegetable servings daily!
Serving Sizes
Let’s review of what counts as one serving:
Fruit:
1 medium-sized whole fruit
½ cup canned, fresh, or frozen fruit
4 oz fruit juice
¼ cup dried fruit
Vegetables:
1 cup raw leafy vegetables
½ cup cut up raw or canned vegetables
½ cup vegetable juice
Tips to Boost Fruit and Vegetable Intake
1. Keep a bowl of whole fruit on the table or counter as a visual reminder and quick easy grab.
2. Purchase dried, frozen and canned fruit (packed in its on juice or light syrup) along with fresh fruit so you always have a fruit option on hand.
3. Stock up on frozen vegetables, which are quick and easy to microwave.
4. Buy fresh veggies that are easy to prepare, such as pre-washed bags of leafy greens.
5. Get in the habit of having at least one fruit or vegetable with every meal and snack.
If you have a quick and easy tip for adding fruits and veggies to your diet please share it below!
About the blogger: