Fruits and Veggies: Are You Getting Enough?

Foods containing high dietary fiber from whole grains, fruits, nuts and vegetables bring more to the table than just fiber - they also provide many essential nutrients and antioxidants that reduce risk for a wide spectrum of chronic diseases. Research also indicates that a diet high in fiber, as well as olive oil, wine and fish ( much like the Mediterranean diet ) have been shown to reduce death rates for heart disease and cancer.

Despite the proven health and nutrition benefits of fruits and vegetables, only 20 percent of men and 30 percent of women eat five or more servings a day - with the average American having only one fruit serving and two vegetable servings per day.

Do all you can to add color and fiber to your diet by eating fruits, vegetables, and whole grains at each and every meal. from Dr.Stacey A. Hilton Cardiac Services Manager

A note of interest : Superior Grocers and Sprouts offers a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables at very affordable prices, if you keep fruits and vegetables on hand at home you are much more likely to include them in your meals. Out of sight, out of mind, unfortunately out of your body, where they will do the most good for your health !

A GREAT WAY TO SEE YOUR PLATE
Think of your plate as a circle equaling 100%. If you fill your plate with 80% of the freshest fruits and vegetables you can (these can be any fruits and veggies that appeal to your tastes) then the remaining 20% can a small portion of the casserole or meat entree' you have with your family meal. You have just increased your consumption of fruits, vegetables FIBER. You will have done yourself a huge benefit health wise. This is a very simple format for a healthier life. Try it and see how satisfying it can be to eat healthy.