September marks National Fruits and Veggies Month, and it’s the perfect time to celebrate the health benefits that fruits and vegetables bring to our plates and our lives. Fruits and veggies play a role in lifelong health and longevity.
Whether you're a veggie lover or just starting to explore beyond apples and carrots, this month is all about stepping outside your food comfort zone and discovering new ways to enjoy fruits and veggies!
Why Add Fruits and Veggies to Every Meal?
- Disease Prevention: A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of stroke, heart disease, and high blood pressure.
- Mood Boosting: Nutrients like folate, magnesium, and antioxidants found in produce can help improve your mood and mental clarity.
- Weight Management: Low in calories and high in fiber, fruits and veggies help you feel full longer --- a great tool for maintaining a healthy weight.
- Versatility: From smoothies to stir-fries, fruits and vegetables can be enjoyed in countless ways --- fresh, frozen, canned, dried, mashed, pureed, or chopped.
Easy Ways to Get Started
- Start your morning with berries in your oatmeal or spinach in your eggs.
- Snack smart with carrot slices, an apple, or dried fruit.
- Blend up a fruit-and-veggie smoothie.
- Add a side salad or roasted veggies to lunch and dinner.
National Fruits and Veggies Month is also a great opportunity to connect with others:
- Visit a local farmers market and explore seasonal produce.
- Try a new recipe together --- maybe something with a fruit or veggie you’ve never tasted.
- Share your experience on social media or with friends --- snap a photo of your colorful plate or your farmers market haul!
Resources
Want to learn more or get inspired? Check out these great sources:
