Eating plenty of fruits and vegetables each day can provide important nutrients to your diet that may protect you against heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.
But adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet can seem overwhelming. Fortunately, there are ways to make it simpler.
1. Eat at the Table
Eating meals together at the table can help you incorporate more fruits and vegetables into your diet, as these foods are packed with vital vitamins, minerals and other beneficial compounds that can enhance health benefits.
Eating dinner together not only promotes good nutrition, but it can also strengthen relationships with those you care about and create lasting memories. Studies show that families who eat dinner regularly are more likely to get their daily servings of fruits and vegetables than those who don’t.
Family mealtimes can help kids become less selective and consume a wider range of nutritious foods. Furthermore, they promote slower eating which may reduce obesity risks.
2. Keep it in Sight
To make eating fruits and vegetables a part of your regular diet, keep them convenient and delicious by having your fruit bowl out on display on your counter top. That will encourage you to grab a piece or two when hunger strikes! A well-stocked pantry or fridge can be a major asset in the kitchen. For instance, colorful fruit like cherries, grapes or even avocadoes provide an array of delectable snacks that will keep the family occupied for hours on end. Similarly, having a colorful platter of fresh-shaved vegetables on hand is the key to creating an appetite for happy munchers. Utilizing these straightforward options makes for healthier living and an improved home life. Even if you aren’t an experienced chef, experiment with different combinations to come up with your own healthy menu.
3. Make it a Meal
It’s no secret that including more fruits and vegetables in your diet is a great way to improve overall health and wellness. But how can you ensure you are getting those essential vitamins and minerals into your body?
Start by increasing your intake of fruits and vegetables throughout the day. Whether it’s through an easy fruit salad or some servings of freshly-picked produce, ensure you’re getting essential nutrients where they belong: in your mouth! Doing this will keep you feeling great year-round, helping avoid those pesky post-holiday blues. And if money allows, a trip to your local farmers market might be just what your family needs; look out for local heirloom varieties for great deals! It may require some planning but it will be worth every minute spent there; plus it’s an opportunity to meet new people while learning about local produce offerings!
4. Make it Easy
Increase the nutritional value of your meals with more fruits and vegetables by following the American Heart Association’s recommendation: 2 to 3 cups daily for reduced risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease or cancer.
Fruits and vegetables are packed with essential nutrients that promote good health, plus they’re easy to enjoy and delicious!
Start your day off right with a nutritious breakfast like oatmeal with shredded vegetables! Or whip up an easy quiche for lunch that’s also delicious.
Add finely grated carrots to pasta sauce, meat loaf or chili for an easy way to sneak in extra servings of vegetables without affecting the flavor of your dish.
Cut vegetables like carrots, cauliflower, broccoli florets or red, green and yellow peppers can be kept on hand for midafternoon snacks, side dishes or lunch box additions. Or grill colorful vegetable kabobs on the grill for a healthily fresh and easy meal that’s packed with color and flavor.
