Summer is filled with colorful fruits and vegetables, from watermelon to melons, tomatoes to greens, and many more. It’s the season to indulge in foods that are tasty and good for you, too.
September is National Fruits and veggies Month and it’s a great time to learn the many benefits of fruits and veggies to motivate you to include more in each meal and snack.
The fiber in produce helps keep you full, helps improve digestion and helps reduce risks and effects of several diseases such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and more. Many fruits and vegetables are packed with vitamins and minerals that our bodies can’t produce on their own. As a general rule, it’s recommended to fill at least half of your plate with fruits and vegetables to ensure you’re consuming enough.
It’s important to remember that all forms of fruits and vegetables count-fresh, frozen, dried, and canned. When purchasing canned produce, look for “no salt added” or “canned in 100% juice”. When we consume more fruits and vegetables, we lower our calorie intake and reduce our intake of high-calories foods.
More information on incorporating fruits and vegetables into your daily diet plan – not just in September – is available from several sources, including:
- K-State Research and Extension food, Nutrition, Dietetics and Health: www.ksre.ksu.edu/humannutrition.
- Produce for a Better Health Foundation: https://fruitsandveggies.org
- USDA MyPlate: https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/what-is-myplate
By: Ashley Svaty
