Fruits & Veggies - More Matters

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fruitveggiesFruits, vegetables and whole grains are part and parcel of a well balanced diet. They provide essential vitamins and dietary fiber; and are low in calories. There is also a link between high fruit and vegetable consumption and a reduced risk of developing certain diseases such as cancer and diabetes.

Unfortunately, many individuals find it difficult to incorporate fruits, vegetables and whole grains into their health maintenance plan. Healthy foods don't have to be scary, they can be fun!
Ten ways to add more fruits, veggies and whole grains to your diet:

1. Keep washed fruit on your office desk or kitchen countertop in order to remind yourself to eat your fruit.
2. Add apples, bananas, strawberries, raisins and peaches to your morning oatmeal or yogurt.
3. Eat fruit for dessert - baked apples or pears are especially tasty.
4. Toss chickpeas, garbanzo beans or string beans into your mixed greens salad
5. Add fresh or frozen veggies to your soup or whole wheat pasta dishes.
6. Use precut fruits and veggies as snacks.
7. Make at least one meal a week vegetarian ex. "Meat free Mondays."
8. Snack on homemade salsa w/ carrots or celery instead of chips and dip.
9. Try a peanut butter and banana sandwich on whole grain bread instead of the same old pb and j.
10. Use fruit salads as a way of experimenting with new fruit combinations.
Once you've figured out how to incorporate more fruit and vegetables into your diet, you need to make sure that you're eating proper portion sizes of your new favorite treats.