According to the Produce for Better Health Foundation, 90% of adults and children don’t eat the proper amount of fruits and vegetables in their daily diets! Poor diet and exercise plans can cause disease, poor weight management, and reduced motivation. This month, take a look at you and your family’s diets and exercises and see if there are ways you can improve.

Why Do We Need Fruit and Vegetables in our Diets?

Fruits and vegetables are necessary parts of our diets. They offer nutrients, vitamins, and minerals that are crucial to the clean function of the human body. They’ve also been seen to help reduce the chances of getting certain diseases, such as cancer. In order to maintain a balanced diet, the average person needs 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables a day.

Easy Ways to Eat More Servings of Fruit and Vegetables

1. If you eat at fast-food restaurants often, try to pick healthier options on the menu. Many fast food restaurants now offer salad or fruit options.
2. Keep a bag of apples or bunch of bananas by the door so you can grab one on the way out.
3. Pick up some pre-packaged fruit cups when you’re at the grocery store. They’re easy to transport and can be eaten anywhere.
4. When making dinner, pick options that are rich in vegetables (stuffed peppers, stir fry)
5. Have a small salad with every lunch. You can buy bagged salad for cheap in most produce sections of grocery stores.
6. Maintain a fruit bowl at work.
7. Put veggies on your sandwiches.
8. Try to make fruits or vegetables a side on every meal or snack.
9. Make smoothies.

For your health, it is vital that you meet your daily goal of servings of fruits and vegetables. Because lifestyle changes can be difficult at first, it will help to start small and work your way up. Starting the day with a healthier breakfast, or switching out your unhealthy snacks for more healthy options is a great way to start your transformation into eating more fruits and vegetables!

What Can You Do To Improve Your Diet?

Learn more about a balanced diet with these resources, or contact Piedmont Colorectal Associates today to learn how your diet can affect your digestive health:

• http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/experts-recommend-5-9-servings-of-fruits-and-veggies-daily
• http://www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org/
• http://www.fitness.gov/resource-center/facts-and-statistics/