10 Reasons to Eat More Fruits & Vegetables

The food we eat today is far from nature. No matter how much we try to shop healthy, most of the food we find on grocery store shelves is processed. Processed foods are loaded with additives that eventually harm our bodies in multiple ways. Otherwise, when we don't try to do groceries, it inevitably leads to cheese-laden pizza for dinner. The study of the effects of processed foods and junk food on our bodies is terrifying. No wonder the risks of heart disease, diabetes, and obesity are higher in recent times. The best solution is to eat a natural diet. So fruits and vegetables are your best food options. Here are 10 reasons why you should include fruits and vegetables in your daily diet.

1. Great Sources of Vitamins & Minerals

Both fruits and vegetables are full of vitamins and minerals that are essential for our body. Finding a good source of nutrition from these food groups is quite a task. Vitamins A, C, and E are abundant in fruits and vegetables. In addition, they include additional very advantageous components like folic acid, magnesium, zinc, phosphorus, and others. For example, avocados, tomatoes, bananas, and potatoes are excellent sources of potassium, which is essential for the body.

2. Textures & Flavors

The colors, unique textures, and flavors make plant-based foods not only healthy to eat, but a very interesting kitchen ingredient. You'll be able to get creative in the kitchen with the strong flavors of onion, garlic, and pepper. Or you can choose lighter options that suit your taste like corn and mushrooms. If you want to add some sweetness to your breakfast, lunch or dinner, you can go with fruit options. You can use plums, pineapple or grapes for this. Finally, if you want to enjoy a sour taste, lemon grapefruit will come to the rescue.

3. Great Source of Fiber

Fruits and vegetables are both great providers of dietary fiber. Fiber is an important nutrient for the body that comes with many health benefits. If the body is not getting the required amount of fiber, it can lead to some serious problems. Vegetables generally contain more fiber than fruits. Therefore, vegetables protect the health of the intestines. Also, vegetables can keep you fuller for longer, so they help in weight loss. Some vegetables that are rich in fiber include cabbage, green peas, and broccoli. Fruits that are high in fiber include apples, pears, pumpkin, and raspberries.

4. Protection against Diseases

Plant-based foods contain phytochemicals. Phytochemicals are substances that are biologically active and can protect against many diseases. That's why plant-based foods are considered best for preventing cancer, diabetes, heart disease, high blood pressure, etc. Cruciferous vegetables such as broccoli, collards, and cabbage are highly regarded as cancer-preventing foods. Therefore, a fixed portion of your regular diet should consist of these food groups. Taking preventive measures to prevent disease is easier than treating the disease.

5. Low in Calories

These food groups are fairly low in calories and fat, which is why they should be your first choice when you're trying to lose weight. Plant-based foods have a minimal number of calories and are also good for keeping you hydrated. Including them in your diet means that you will stay fuller for longer and that too by consuming fewer calories. Fruits are good for curbing your sugar cravings. Instead of eating M&Ms, you may indulge your sweet taste and reap several health advantages by eating a cup of grapes.  However, there are some exceptions. For example, olives, coconuts, and avocados are high in calories and do not help with weight loss.

6. Necessary to Maintain Good Health

Fruits and vegetables have amazing nutritional properties that make them ideal for maintaining good health. These foods are very low in salt, sugar, and saturated fat, which is why they pose minimal health risks. They not only cure diseases but also protect the body from diseases by providing antioxidants. Fruits and vegetables will help you reduce inflammation as well as lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Eating a plant-based diet can also help you enjoy a longer life.

7. Low in Sodium & Cholesterol

The sodium content of fresh fruit is almost negligible. The same is the case with vegetables. The trace amount of sodium in these foods makes them healthy. Celery, considered to contain the highest amount of sodium, contains 30 milligrams of sodium in one stalk. It contributes 1% of daily requirements. On the other hand, cholesterol is completely absent in these planar items. You can eat these foods without fear of high cholesterol.

8. Convenient & Easy To Access

Plant-based foods are available literally everywhere you go. Unlike any other food, they are easily accessible. No matter where you live, enjoy regional and seasonal vegetables and fruits to the fullest. After adopting a plant-based diet, you will see noticeable changes in your health. If you are not used to consuming these foods at all, start by adding small amounts. Make sure to include at least some of these foods in your diet.

9. Nutritious In All Forms

You can freeze these foods, or freeze them, and they will provide you with all the nutrients you need. Freezing and canning vegetables will increase their shelf life and make them easier to use. Dehydrated fruits also have a longer shelf life. Products that are canned and frozen are often prepared shortly after harvest. For this reason, nourishment is cut off right away.

10. Smoothies!

If you have a blender, all you need is some ice and fruit to make a delicious smoothie. Smoothies are probably the easiest and most fun way to consume plant-based foods. The best part is that you can choose your favorite flavor and prepare your smoothie instantly, wherever you are.