Beans on the stalk

Wellness Wednesday–Eat those fruits and veggies!

One of the most important actions we can do for good health is to eat lots of fresh fruits and vegetables.

Uh . . . we’ve heard that since we were children, right?

But, fresh fruits and vegetables provide a great many benefits:

  • Fruits and vegetables are loaded with complex carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and fiber.
  • They are filling, which helps us not to eat too much (of the things not good for us).
  • Fruits and veggies are a good source of fiber.
  • Antioxidants in fruits and vegetables strengthen our immune system and reduce risk of heart disease, hypertension, stroke, diabetes, and cancer.
  • Antioxidants improve vision, lower bad cholesterol and improve joint health.

So how much should we eat of these miracle foods?

At least five servings every day (more is even better). A serving is a medium sized piece of fruit, one-half cup (of things that can be measured) and at least a cup or two of leafy greens. Eating fresh fruits and vegetables are best because fresh has less sodium or other additives. Frozen is the next healthiest choice. Be careful of canned vegetables because of the addition of sodium. Be aware that salad dressings, butter, oil and sauces add fat and calories.

Fresh is best!

Brightly colored fruits and vegetables provide the most benefits. They are full of the those nutrients mentioned above (vitamins and minerals) and loaded with antioxidants.

God gifted us with this “fearfully and wonderfully” made body. Eating lots of fruits and veggies help keep our bodies as healthy as possible.

Then God said, “I give you every seed-bearing plant on the face of the whole earth and every tree that has fruit with seed in it. They will be yours for food.” Genesis 1:29

You may already be eating a healthy amount of fruits and vegetables prepared in a nutritious way–that’s great!

But, if you’re not, please consider gradually increasing fruits and vegetables, prepared in a healthy way, and your body will thank you!