While June is best known for its scorching temperatures and the beginning of summer, did you know that June is also National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month? Fruits and vegetables are not only a great way to incorporate beautiful colors into our meals but they are also an important part of a healthy and balanced diet and help us perform our day to day activities.
Many of us are familiar with the slogan “An apple a day keeps the doctor away” and while this may not be entirely true, eating our fruits and vegetables does have many health benefits that can help keep the doctor away, says Amy Valdez, a health specialist with AgriLife Extension. Overall a healthy diet filled with fruits and vegetables can help to reduce the risk of various chronic diseases such as heart disease and type 2 diabetes. Fruits and vegetables contain a variety of nutrients such as potassium, folate, dietary fiber, and vitamins A and C. A healthy, well balanced diet including foods such as spinach, bananas and sweet potatoes, which contain potassium, can help to maintain a healthy blood pressure. Folate or folic acid aids in the formation of red blood cells and can help reduce the risk of neural tube defects during fetal development. Dietary fiber found in fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk of cardiovascular disease and can aid in reducing cholesterol levels. Vitamin A plays a role in eye and skin health while both Vitamin A and C can help boost the immune system and help fight against infections. Fruits and vegetables are also great to eat as a snack or a side as a majority of them are low in calories, sodium, and fat and they add vibrant colors to our meals making them more appealing to eat. To celebrate National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month, Valdez recommends trying out these four ideas below:
Texas A&M AgriLife Extension Service offers some simple recipes that include fresh produce to help you incorporate fruits and vegetables, such as Dinner Tonight’s Summer Veggies with Bow Tie Pasta or Fresh Berry Caprese Salad recipes. To learn more about the recipes, visit https://dinnertonight.tamu.edu *For more information comment below.
0 Comments
Leave a Reply. |
AuthorFABLOW AgriLife is part of Texas A&M AgriLife Extension’s (FCH) unit that “helps Texans better their lives through science-based educational programs designed to improve the overall health and wellness of individuals, families, and communities.” Archives
August 2021
Categories |