Fruits and Vegetables

How many times do we have to be told to eat our fruits and vegetables? If you were anything like me growing up, it was a lot. But, mom new best and that was that.

Everyone knows that they should eat fruits and vegetables, but why? Well of course because they are good for you. Here are just a few of the nitty-gritty facts. Diets with ample fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of cancer and other chronic diseases. They provide essential vitamins and minerals, fiber, and many other substances that are very important for our bodies and our good health. Most fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat and calories. And if you are on a diet, they will fill you up and give you energy. Fruits and vegetables have hundreds of phytochemicals in addition to essential vitamins and minerals.

These are just some of the general facts about fruits and vegetables. Many fruits and vegetables have many more benefits for us. Want to know how many fruits and vegetables you should be eating every day. Here is a great online tool that I found that calculates just that. THE FRUIT AND VEGETABLE CALCULATOR tells you how many fruits and vegetables you should eat based on your calorie needs for your age, sex, and activity level.

Trying to loose some extra weight? Try this out.

Breakfast: Use less cereal in your bole and make room for some sliced bananas or strawberries. If you like omelets for breakfast, try to cut down on the eggs and cheese and add spinach, onions, and or mushrooms. You will be amazed at the flavor they add.

Lunch: Again, cut down on the cheese if you are having a sandwich. Include lots of lettuce, tomatoes and don't forget about the cucumbers.

Dinner: Try this one out. Hide the vegetables in the spaghetti and they will love it and never know. Add broccoli (yeah I know it sounds weird, but trust me, the flavor of the spaghetti overpowers the flavor of the broccoli), onion, and slices of carrots. And for a side dish try out the fruit salad below.

Need some new ideas to get those servings of fruits and vegetables in? Try a fruit salad with fruits that are in season. Just mix in all your favorites. Try adding some peaches, strawberries, grapes, bananas. If its a little bitter, just add a little sugar. And heres a dressing to try out; Just use a little lime juice, a half a cup of pineapple juice, ad a teaspoon of ground ginger. Pour it over the fruit salad and mix. The great thing about fruit salad is that it's very easy to make enough for everyone.

This article and all other articles found at Last Chance Fitness should never be considered a substitute for professional medical advice. Consult your physician before making any health decisions. Last Chance Fitness will not be held responsible for any actions you take based on the suggestions or opinions given freely in the above article. The opinions expressed in this article do not necessarily represent those of the staff of Last Chance Fitness.