September is Fruits & Veggies—More Matters Month. The campaign was created to help focus attention on eating more fruits and vegetables.
More than 90 percent of both adults and children do not eat the amount of fruits and vegetables recommended by the latest Dietary Guidelines for Americans and the MyPlate nutrition guide.
Two easy ways to remember how to meet these guidelines are:
- Fill half your plate with fruits & veggies at every eating occasion including snacks
- All forms-fresh, frozen, canned, and dried count toward your daily intake of fruits and vegetables
Top 10 Reasons to Eat More Fruits and Vegetables
- Color & Texture
Fruits and veggies add color, texture, and appeal to your plate.
- Convenience
Fruits and veggies are nutritious in any form.
- Fiber
Fruits and veggies provide fiber that helps fill you up.
system happy.
- Low in Calories
Fruits and veggies are naturally low in calories.
- Reduce Disease Risk
Eating plenty of fruits and veggies may help reduce the risk of many diseases, including heart disease, high blood pressure, and some cancers.
- Vitamins & Minerals
Fruits and veggies are rich in vitamins and minerals that help you feel healthy and energized.
- Variety
Fruits and veggies are available in an almost infinite variety so there is always
something new to try.
- Quick, Natural Snack
Fruits and veggies are nature’s treat and easy to grab for a snack.
- Fun to Eat
Some crunch, some squirt, some you peel, and some grow right in your own backyard.
- Fruits & Veggies are Nutritious and Delicious!
Most people know that eating fruits and vegetables is important for good health, but most of us still aren’t getting enough. This September, Dr. Mona Dave is proud to participate in Fruits & Veggies – More Matters Month.
Some ideas to help you and your family fit more fruits and vegetables into your day:
- Keep a bowl of fruit handy where the whole family can see it.
- Cut up fruits and veggies ahead of time so they’re ready for quick, healthy snacks.
- Challenge your family to try a new veggie or fruit every week.
Making fruits and vegetables the focal point of every meal will help you meet your recommended amount each day. Remember, eating more fruits and veggies can be fun – and it’s worth it!
If you would like more information about gastrointestinal (GI) digestive disorders and nutrition in children, please contact Dr. Mona Dave’s Plano Office or Southlake Office.
