So many of us want to do better when it comes to eating fruits and vegetables. Below are some common questions and answers that may help you work more of these delicious, nutritious foods into every meal.
Q: Should I be concerned about the sugar that's in fruit?
A: With all the possible things to worry about in the world today, there is no need to worry about the sugar contained in whole fruit. This is true for three main reasons: (1) the amount of sugar is minimal, especially compared to processed sweets; (2) fruit contains vitamins, minerals, and fiber that are good for you; and (3) it's difficult to overdo it on fruit. The same is not true of fruit juice, however – which is why you want to keep an eye on the amount of fruit juice you drink. Choosing fresh whole fruit is not only tasty but can help fill you up.
Q: Is fresh better than frozen when it comes to fruits & vegetables?
A: You may be surprised to hear the nutritional content of frozen produce is similar to that of fresh. So, feel free to stock up on frozen fruits and veggies if it means you'll be more likely to incorporate it into your daily meals. When buying frozen or canned fruits or vegetables, avoid those with added sugar or fat.
Q: How can I add more fruit/veg into my diet?
A: Your options are endless: Toss in berries, banana, peaches, and other favorite fruits into your morning cereal, oatmeal, or yogurt. Add your favorite fruits or raw vegetables into a salad. Experiment with pasta made out of butternut squash, zucchini, or sweet potato – or rice made out of cauliflower and broccoli (in the frozen foods grocery aisle). Use whatever cooked or leftover veggies you have on hand in scrambled eggs, spaghetti sauce, or soup. Roll fresh veggies and avocado into spring roll wrappers, along with your protein of choice. Snack on raw carrots, celery, and more with hummus or peanut butter. Your imagination is the limit!