Eating a diet that is rich in fruits and vegetables as a part of an overall healthy diet can protect against many chronic diseases, including heart disease, type 2 diabetes, certain types of cancers and obesity. A lot of health benefits of eating a variety of fruits and vegetables come from the vitamins, minerals, fiber and other nutrients found in these foods.
Here is a list of some of the nutrients and health benefits that fruits and vegetables offer:
Fruits and vegetables are important sources of nutrients such as
potassium, dietary fiber, folate, and Vitamin A & C
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Potassium can help maintain healthy blood pressure.
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Fiber helps reduce blood cholesterol, lower the risk of heart disease,
and keeps our digestive system healthy.
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Folate helps the body form red blood cells.
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Vitamin A helps keep the eyes and skin healthy and helps to protect against infections.
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Vitamin C helps heal cuts and wounds and helps with iron absorption.
Most fruits are naturally low in fat, sodium, and calories and most vegetables are naturally low in fat and calories. (Sauces or seasoning may add fat and calories.)
Try to focus on whole fruits and vary your veggies. When deciding what fruits and vegetables to eat, choose options that are full of nutrients and limited in added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium. Some ideas are starting your day by adding cooked leftover veggies to a omelet or breakfast wrap or try cereal or oatmeal topped with fruit, or even a smoothie with fruit and spinach.
Remember, Make Half Your Plate Fruits and Vegetables!!
Start simple, the benefits of healthy eating add up over time, bite by bite!
