Celebrate Eating Well in June
Tired of the frozen and canned fruits and vegetables? At the start of June, we celebrate National Fresh Fruit and Vegetable Month! It’s perfect timing as the growing season is in full swing and there is an abundance of fresh produce available locally. Did you know that 1 in 10 adults aren’t getting enough fruits and vegetables? Children still fail to meet recommendations for the amount of both fruit and vegetables they should eat daily.
Dietitians recommend a minimum of 5–A-Day, or about 1-2 cups fruit and 3-4 cups vegetables per day. Fresh is the best! Why? Fresh fruits and vegetables provide a list of valuable nutrients, vitamins, minerals, and fiber for the body while remaining low in calories, fat, and sodium. They can help prevent certain diseases like cancer, heart disease, and diabetes and also help with weight control.
Fun Family Activities to Celebrate National Fresh Fruit & Vegetable Month!
- Host a vegetarian party! As summer kicks off and barbecues are blazing everywhere, why not provide your friends and family with the nutritious and delicious healthy alternative of fruits and vegetables? Click here for 32 healthy vegetarian BBQ recipes.
- Make a smoothie! Treat yourself to a snack that has infinite varieties. Smoothie with Fruit and Veggies – Beyond The Chicken Coop
- Plant a tree or grow a garden! Start your own garden by simply planting a fruit tree or vegetable plant. Enjoy the “fruits” of your labor as you dine on the freshest treats right from your own backyard.
- Supplement a sandwich with fresh tomato and cucumber slices. The possibilities are endless!
Visit a local farmer’s market near you! Farmer’s markets are an incredible place to find the freshest produce, plus it’s a great way to get some fresh air and exercise! Click here to discover a Charlotte area Farmer’s market near you! Farmers Markets in Charlotte.
Gina Gilchrist
RDN, LD - Mathews NC
Gina Gilchrist is a Registered Dietitian with a bachelor’s degree in Dietetics and has 24 years of experience in varied settings, including outpatient nutrition counseling, nutrition health coaching/private practice, research, and corporate health. READ MORE