MARION, Ark. -- Nutrition from fruits and vegetables helps families live healthier and eat better, says VeEtta Simmons, Crittenden County Extension agent with the University of Arkansas Division of Agriculture.
Although many people know they should eat more fruits and vegetables to maintain a healthy diet, chances are they aren’t eating enough. Families should look at their dinner plate and see an amount of fruits and vegetables that equals half the plate, says Simmons. They should also add fruits and vegetables into lunch and breakfast.
Not eating enough fruits and vegetables means missing out on their benefits.
"A growing body of research shows that fruits and vegetables are critical to promoting good health," says Simmons. People who add a small amount of fruits and vegetables into their diet are likely to have reduced risk of many health problems, including heart disease, blood pressure, stroke, type 2 diabetes and some cancers.
"Fruits and veggies also provide fiber that helps fill you up and keep your digestive system happy while adding color, texture and appeal to you plate," says Simmons.
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http://www.uaex.edu/news/march2009/0313fruits_veggies.htm
Contact:
Lamar James, (501) 671-2187 or (501) 753-0207, ljames@uaex.edu
