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National & World Ag News Headlines |
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June is National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month
USAgNet - 06/23/2017
The summer month of June is a great time to celebrate the health and flavor that fresh fruits and vegetables offer according to Dr. Pam Duitsman, nutrition and health education specialist, University of Missouri Extension.
"Variety can be as important as quantity because each vegetable or fruit has its unique signature of healthy components - yet none provides all of the nutrients we need to stay healthy," said Duitsman.
The basic goal, according to Duitsman, should be to eat more vegetables and fruits. There are a variety of reasons to do so.
For starters, fruits and vegetables provide many nutrients - both traditional nutrients like vitamins A, C and K; potassium, fiber and magnesium -- and also many phytonutrients that promote health beyond that of traditional nutrients.
A broad body of scientific evidence indicates that the risk of many types of diseases may be decreased by simply eating a variety of different produce. Such benefits include reduced risk of heart disease and stroke, reduced blood pressure, and even prevention
of some types of cancer.
Fruits and veggies are low in calories. They also happen to be delicious, especially when in season.
Eating more fruits and vegetables also makes it easy to follow the US Dietary Guidelines which advises to reduce sodium, solid fats and refined grains, increase consumption of plant foods, and fill half our plate with fruits and vegetables.
"There are several things you can do for yourself or family to making eating more fruits and vegetables a reality," said Duitsman.
First, make them the easy choice. Wash, cut up and package produce in easy-to-grab-and-go containers. Try doing this on the weekend so that you have healthy to-go snacks available throughout the week.
Keep fruit out where you can see it. A fruit basket on the table or counter is inviting and beautiful.
Add veggies to recipes, or try recipes that use only vegetables, substituting veggies for meat.
Use up vegetables that are starting to age by throwing them into a stir-fry for a delicious meal.
Visit the Farmers Market or produce aisle with a goal to try something new each week.
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