In this two-part video series to celebrate National Nutrition Month, Welia Health registered dietician Melissa Merrick, RD, LD, explains the importance of fruits and vegetables in our daily diets and offers guidance to help you make smart decisions about the foods you choose to eat.
Fruits and Vegetables Part 1: Benefits for a healthy lifestyle
Things to remember
- Choose a colorful array of vegetables, making sure to include those with deep and vibrant colors.
- Pay attention to serving sizes and what that means for the daily nutritional needs for males and females.
- Understand the pros and cons of fresh, frozen, and canned fruits and vegetables.
- Make small changes over time to create healthy habits.
Fruits and Vegetables Part 2: Tips and recipes for including more in your diet
Things to remember
- Try one new fruit or vegetable every week.
- Add extra veggies to your recipes.
- Try meatless Mondays.
- Keep fruits and veggies pre-prepped and available in your refrigerator.
Resources
Fruits and vegetables listed by color, along with nutrition, storage and handling information from the Produce for Better Health Foundation
Keep fruits and vegetables fresher longer from the American Heart Association