News

Eat More Fruits and Vegetables

We all know that we should be eating fruits and vegetables as part of a healthy diet, but many people don’t consume the recommended amount. In fact, a study published in 2017 by the CDC found that only 1 in 10 adults meet the recommended intake. As a reminder of the importance of eating fruits and vegetables, Dole Food Company designated the Thursday prior to Memorial Day as national Eat More Fruits & Vegetables Day.

There are many benefits to eating fruits and vegetables, including:

• They are rich in vitamins and minerals
• They help reduce the risk of developing chronic diseases
• They are good sources of fiber, which is essential for digestive health
• They are naturally low in calories
• Many of them require no preparation, and can easily be eaten in raw form

To celebrate Eat More Fruits and Vegetables Day, find ways to add extra fruits and vegetables to the foods you already eat, such as adding a handful of berries to your breakfast, adding extra vegetables to a sandwich or substituting salty snacks with carrot or celery sticks. Be sure to speak with your physician or dietician before making any changes to your diet.