You may have heard that eating fruits (and vegetables) is good for you, but do you know why? Eating a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is associated with a decreased risk of some chronic diseases, such as type II diabetes and high blood pressure. Fruits contain fiber and many vitamins and minerals, such as folate, potassium, and vitamin C. Fruit contains a type of carbohydrate called fructose which is a kind of sugar that is naturally occurring (as opposed to added sugar).

What is a fruit?

Scientifically, a fruit is a part of a plant that contains the seeds and develops from the flower. With this definition, squash, bell peppers, and green beans would technically be considered fruits. However, people do not typically consider these foods to be fruits. A more popular definition of fruits is that they have a sweet taste compared to vegetables that have more of a savory flavor.

How much fruit is recommended in a day?

The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends consuming around 2 cups of fruit per day, depending on your age. This can include fresh fruits, frozen fruit, canned fruit (choose those canned in water or their own juice), dried fruit (1/2 cup is equal to a 1 cup fresh equivalent), and 100% fruit juice. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends that at least half of the recommended amount of fruit should come from fruit, rather than 100% juice. Please see the ‘Sugar Sweetened Beverage’ guide for more information on fruit juice.

Tip: Making half of your plate fruits and vegetables at mealtimes can ensure that you get enough fruits and vegetables.

Is the color of fruit important?

Yes! Fruits (and vegetables) have many different colors that relate to their different nutrients, specifically phytochemicals. Phytochemicals, or antioxidants, are compounds that help protect the body from stress, cancer, and other diseases. They can also boost the body’s immunity! Because they provide different nutrients, no one color is better than another. The next time you are in the grocery store, think about the colors of the fruits and vegetables that you are selecting and try to select a variety that represents several different colors.

How can I eat more fruit?

Keeping fruit in a bowl on the counter is a helpful reminder to eat more fruit! Placing washed and cut fruit in containers at the front of the fridge makes it easier to eat fruit as a snack. (Helpful tip: Wash berries right before you eat them to avoid wilting/softening) Packing fruit, such as a banana, grapes, or an apple and taking them with you is a great snack and an excellent way to increase your fruit intake.

Try these tips to increase your fruit intake during the day:

Breakfast:

• Add a banana or berries to cereal
• Try a smoothie! Use your favorite frozen fruit, yogurt, and milk
• Have a peach or apple with your usual breakfast
• Add berries to pancakes or waffles
• Add a banana or blueberries to peanut butter toast
• Slice up your favorite fruit and add to oatmeal

Lunch:

• Add strawberries, mandarin oranges, or melon to your salad
• Try a peanut butter and banana sandwich
• Pack a fruit such as an apple, orange, or grapes as a side

Snacks:

• Spread peanut butter or cream cheese on apple slices
• Pair a pear with a cheese stick
• Mix your favorite dried fruit with a small handful of nuts and whole grain cereal
• Mix berries into a Greek yogurt
• Top whole-grain pita chips with mango or pineapple salsa