When it comes to most Americans,
many of us aren’t consuming enough of these healthful foods. A recent analysis conducted by the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention reports only 13.1% of Americans are eating
enough fruit and a shocking 8.9% of Americans are eating enough vegetables. Each state varied in consumption, with
California ranking the highest in consumption of both fruits and vegetables, Tennessee
consuming the least amount of fruit and Mississippi consuming the least amount
of vegetables. According to Medical News
Today, a survey that was conducted from 2007-2010, indicated that “half of the
US population consumed under 1 cup of fruits and under 1.5 cups of vegetables a
day.”
Fruits and vegetables not only add beneficial
color to your plate, but they include essential nutrients that have been known
to reduce the risk for heart disease, stroke, and even some types of
cancers. In addition, fruits and
vegetables have a low calorie density, which when eaten in place of foods that
are more calorie dense, can help with weight loss and maintenance.
The amount considered “enough” is
different for everyone and varies depending on age, sex, and activity
level. Some tips to help increase your
intake of fruits and vegetables include:
·
Aim to make half of your plate fruits and
vegetables
·
Pair raw veggies with hummus for a crunchy snack
·
Save time by utilizing frozen vegetables in
recipes
·
Add greens such as spinach or kale to soups,
stews, and casseroles
·
Top your salad with dried or fresh fruit
·
Buy pre-washed bags of vegetables and cut-up
containers of fruit
·
Head to the grocery store or farmers market and
pick up something new to you
·
Wash and cut fresh fruit and vegetables and
place them in a see-through container in the fridge for easy snacking
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