4 Easy Tips on Adding Fruit and Vegetables to Every Meal

It is finally summer! There is no better way to celebrate the start of this warm weather season than with a bowl of fresh produce for National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month. While fruit and vegetables make a great snack any time of year, there is nothing better than chilled juicy watermelon on a hot day. The summer is also the perfect time to fire up the grill and roast some tasty vegetables.

You may choose to buy your produce from a supermarket or from the local farmers’ market. Keep in mind, if you are buying produce that are not in season, you can check out the frozen aisle. Many produce are picked at the peak of their season and frozen to maintain freshness. Either way, the important thing is that you eat them!

3 Health Benefits of Eating Fruits and Vegetables

Fruits and vegetables are not only key components to a well-balanced diet, but they are also flavorful and delicious. If it’s not the taste that wins you over, perhaps knowing the health benefits of eating more fruits and vegetables will get you to eat more:

High in Fiber: Many fruits and vegetables boast a high amount of fiber, which means they are great at keeping your digestive system healthy as well as keeps you full for longer. Fruits like berries, and vegetables like broccoli, are great options if you are looking to increase your fiber intake.

Reduce Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: There is evidence that suggests that a high intake of fruits and vegetables can lead to a reduced risk of developing conditions such as heart disease or stroke. This is attributed to a variety of micro and macronutrients that aid in heart functions.

Eye Health: Many fruits and vegetables contain Vitamin A, which plays a crucial role in maintaining eye health. Carrots are particularly high in Vitamin A, but sweet potatoes, winter squash, and cantaloupe are rich in Vitamin A as well.

4 Tips on How You Can Add Fruits and Vegetables to Meals

It can sometimes be difficult to incorporate fruits and vegetables into meals, but it is so important to do so because of their amazing benefits. Here are just some easy ways you can add more to your diet:

Add Fruit Toppings: Adding berries or bananas to your everyday oatmeal or yogurt will not only enhance the flavor, but you will get in those extra antioxidants and other nutrients to help fuel you throughout the day.

Raspberry Applesauce: Applesauce is quite easy to make at home and allows you to add more tasty ingredients you couldn’t find at the store. You can throw in a handful of raspberries for a touch of added flavor.

Dig into Dip: A great snack for all ages is carrots and hummus. What is great about hummus is that you can buy it in a variety of flavors and choose any easy to dip vegetable to pair it with.

Make a Summer Fruit Salad: Adding seasonal fruit to your favorite salad adds the sweetness that it needs. Load in all your ingredients of choice and you have yourself a perfect salad with fruits and veggies alike!

There is so much variety when it comes to fruits and vegetables, it is hard to not like at least one! Whether you choose to start growing a garden, incorporate fruits and vegetables into more meals, or enjoy some delicious fruit and veggies fresh from the local farmer’s market, be sure to enjoy this month! Celebrate all that fruits and vegetables have to offer.

Your Turn to Take Action: What is your favorite seasonal fruit and/or vegetable to eat in the summer? Let me know in the comments below.