Most Americans don’t eat enough fruits and vegetables. With summer around the corner and the Arizona heat making its presence early, seasonal fruits and vegetables are plentiful. Listed below are 10 reasons why you should increase your daily intake.
1. You probably are not getting the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables in your diet. It is recommended that most people eat at least 3 to 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day.
2. Fruits and vegetables are good for your health and are packed with vitamins and minerals as well as antioxidants. Antioxidants may help to boost the immune system which can help prevent heart disease, diabetes and cancer.
3. As a personal trainer, I always hear “I don’t like vegetables.” There is something for everyone in the world of fruits and vegetables so arguing that you “don’t like them” doesn’t cut it. The variety of fruits and vegetables on grocery store shelves today is astounding, so find something you like and enjoy!
4. If you are busy with your career, your family and life in general, adding fruits and vegetables to your diet is easy. Many fruits and veggies can be eaten raw and on the go. Just make sure to wash them beforehand.
5. Fruits and vegetables are filling and low in calories so they can help individuals with their weight loss goals. For example, two medium-sized fresh apricots have only about 34 calories, five medium asparagus spears have only 16 calories, and a medium sized apple has less than 75 calories.
6. Many fruits and vegetables are packed with fiber, which is good for your digestive health. It is recommended that on average you should get 25 to 35 grams of fiber a day.
7. Eating more fruits and vegetables will make you a good role model for your family and teaching your kids healthy eating habits for their health in the future.
8. Fruits and vegetables are delicious.
9. Fruits and vegetables are versatile. They can be eaten at any meal and at any time of the day, and they can be prepared any way you like, baked, broiled, grilled, sautéed, boiled or pureed, and, of course, many can be eaten raw.
10. Eating more locally grown fruits and vegetables helps to support the Arizona local economy and our local farmers.
For more healthy living and fitness tips visit Michelle on her website http://www.teamefitness.com/ or on Facebook.
