Fruits and Vegetables is the foundation to a wellbeing and a healthy lifestyle. They contain important vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals. Research shows that these phytochemicals are vital in preventing many diseases including some cancers.
There are many ways in which to eat your fruit and vegetables. Because of their naturally sweet taste, it can be easier to tuck into a juicy fruit than it is a vegetable. However, there are many ways that vegetables can be prepared and presented that can make them more enticing and easier on the palate.
Understanding your needs
Firstly, variety is important. This ensures not only a variety of tastes, but a variety of nutrients. It is recommended to have 2-3 servings of fruits more day and 2 1/2 cups of vegetables, but really the amount is endless.
Aim to increase
If fruits and vegetables are on the scarce list on you daily menu, start slowly by increasing the amount one by one.
Blend and Merge
Adding finely grated carrot, zucchini to spaghetti bolognaise or your favourite pasta sauce is an ingenious way to get in those vegetables discreetly, especially for your kids.
Blend and Juice
A fruit smoothie or a vegetable juice is a great way to consume your fruit and vegetables.
Try something new
Break out of your comfort zone. It’s very easy to stick to the same menu, but reach for variety and try a new fruit or vegetable.
Spread and Dip it
Try spreading mashed avocado on your wholemeal toast or dipping carrots or celery sticks into your favourite hummus dip.
Make Improvements
Prepare a salad with all the combinations of vegetables such as carrot, lettuce (not ice berg as this contains the least amount of nutrition), tomato, avocado, onion. You can even add a dried fruit such as raisins or sultanas for that bit of sweet. Jazz it up with olive oil and balsamic vinegar.
