Tips to Get Your Five-a-Day!
By Sara Butler
Your mom wasn't reminding you to eat your vegetables and fruits just because she likes to tell you what to do. She was doing it because it's an important part of your balanced diet! The USDA recommends adults eat five servings of fruits and vegetables per day, which can be a little tougher than you think. Here are some tips to help you meet your five-a-day quota!
Eat One with Each Meal
Every single meal you have should be made up of half fruits and vegetables. If that sounds as if it's too much to handle, then start small by simply adding one vegetable or fruit to your plate at each meal. One cup of green beans, a banana, or even an apple will do the trick. Simply make it a priority to add in at least one piece of fruit or one serving of vegetables and then use that as a springboard to add on even more as you get used to it. It'll get easier!
Snack Right
Don't hit the vending machine for a candy bar when you hit that afternoon slump. Instead, have some vegetables or fruit on hand to munch on. You can pack some baby carrots and hummus or sliced fruit with peanut butter. These snacks will stick with you longer and help you feel more energized while helping you to work more servings of fruits and vegetables into your day.
Eat a Smart Starter
Begin adding a small side salad or vegetable-based soup to your meals when you eat out. This can help you get more vegetables while also helping you to eat less when your meal arrives. Just be sure to choose a non-creamy salad dressing.
Take it with You
If you find that you like to snack a lot, make sure to have some fresh cut vegetables and fruit on hand to easily grab when you're feeling puckish. You can choose dried fruits, bananas, apples, grapes, celery sticks, and cucumbers to take with you for a quick snack in a pinch.
Go with Favorites
You should always be trying new things when it comes to your diet, but there's no shame in having a few faithful and well-loved fruits and vegetables that are your go-to. Experiment with new things every so often, but there's nothing wrong with having a few favorites.
Eating your five servings of fruits and vegetables each day isn't as challenging as you think, especially with these tips!
To learn more about your health, wellness, and fitness, see your local chiropractor at The Joint Chiropractic in Gahanna, Ohio.
