There are few well informed people who would argue against the nutritional value of fruits and vegetables. And so daily in Syracuse good parents can be found coaxing their kids to eat more fruits and vegetables. The Harvard School of Public Health has reported that the health benefits of fruits and vegetables include lower blood pressure, reduced risk of heart disease, lower risk of eye and digestive problems, and probably a lower risk of some cancers. Dennis Thompson has reported for Health Day "For Nutritional Punch, You Can't Beat Plant-Based Foods." Experts with the U.S. government now encourage Americans to fill half their plates with fruits and vegetables. And the new system at Weight Watchers' assigns no points to nearly all fruits and vegetables, which makes them a truly "guilt-free" option.
Vegetables and fruits are high in nutrients while being light on calories. There are high amounts of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and fiber in fruits and vegetables. Furthermore, there has been a link found between eating more fruits and vegetables and a decreased risk for serious health problems such as diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure and cancer. Yet, greater than nine of 10 Americans consume fewer fruits and vegetables than the daily amount recommended by the U.S. Department of Agriculture's dietary guidelines. The U.S. government recommendation ranges from 2 cups to 6 1/2 cups daily.
Particularly healthy fruits and vegetables include blue and purple fruits and vegetables which contain anthocyanins, which have been shown to help fight some cancers and are helpful in anti-aging and memory function. Anthocyanins are found in blueberries, blackberries, plums, grapes, figs and raisins. And green fruits and vegetables contain luteins, which lower cancer risk and help to promote better vision and strong bones and teeth. Luteins are found in avocados, kiwi fruit, pears and apples. Anthocyanins and lycopene are found in red fruits and vegetables which can help keep the heart healthy, maintain better memory function and lower the risk for some cancers. Therefore to maintain a nutritious diet which can help protect you from illness don't forget to eat extra fruits and vegetables everyday.
Photographer: Piyachok Thawornmat
