Health benefits from daily fruits and vegetables

The health benefits from daily fruits and vegetables are numerous

It’s no secret that fruits and vegetables are good for us. Most of us are aware that the recommendation is to eat at least 5-6 servings of fruits and vegetables a day. But did you know that the average American gets only 2.1 servings of fruits and vegetables a day? 

• Fruits and vegetables are nutritionally dense with vitamins, antioxidants, and phyto-nutrients that help reduce our risk for various cancers, heart dis-ease, obesity, high blood pressure, inflammation and infections. 

• Fruits and vegetables are also high in water content. This makes them a low calorie choice. Adding fruit and vegetables to your meals and snacks can help to lower your overall calorie in-take and keep you feeling satisfied. 
• Fruits and vegetables are high in fiber. Fiber rich foods help our digestive system to work efficiently and help to keep us fuller longer. 

Take advantage of the season 

There are lots of great farmers markets open through the spring-fall months. Farmers markets offer local produce that comes straight from the farm to you. Produce from a farmers market will often have a longer shelf life as it is not being transported from other areas of the country or the world. Also, often you will save money. 

Check out Kalamazoo area farmers markets and orchards for more information.