Fruits and vegetables are packed with essential vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre, all of which are important for overall health and well-being.
Studies have shown the potential health benefits of consuming a variety of fruits and vegetables. They are associated with the prevention of chronic diseases, weight management, improved digestive health, and better skin health.
The UK government guidelines recommend consuming at least five portions of a variety of fruits and vegetables per day for a healthy diet.
Here’s a guide on creative and easy ways to eat more fruits and vegetables:
Add mixed berries and bananas to your breakfast cereals or oatmeal.
Incorporate vegetables like tomatoes, onions, bell peppers, and spinach into your eggs.
Blend fruits and vegetables into smoothies or juices at home.
Snack on fruits and vegetables such as pineapples, oranges, apples, tomatoes, carrots, and cucumbers.
Fill your sandwiches with colourful vegetables.
Include vegetables in soups, stews, and sauces.
Add vegetable stir-fries to main meals like pasta and rice and serve vegetable salads as side dishes.
Add dried fruits to breakfast cereals and baked goods.
Buy frozen or tinned fruits and vegetables if you are too busy to prepare fresh ones from scratch.
Make fruit and vegetable salads and keep them in the fridge for quick access.
Experiment with a variety of fresh and seasonal fruits and vegetables.
Remember to wash fruits and vegetables properly to remove soil and pesticides.