We all know that we should eat plenty of fruits and vegetables every day, but sometimes this seems like a tall task.
September is a great time here in Maine to talk about healthy fruits and vegetables. First of all, it’s Fruits and Veggies – More Matters Month when healthy eating, especially with fresh produce is promoted. Secondly, our end of summer harvests is coming in with the best fruits and veggies that our state offers.
These powerhouse foods are packed with nutrients like calcium, iron, magnesium, and fiber to help build bone and muscle. Fruits and veggies can even help fight foot problems! Plantar fasciitis is caused by inflammation, and green, leafy vegetables along with fruits can help fight inflammation.
Modern dietary guidelines urge us to eat at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables each day. But instead of counting servings, try to fill half your plate with these foods at every meal. Reach for fresh fruit for a snack. Don’t forget that all types of fruits and veggies count – fresh, canned, dried, frozen, and 100% juice.
How To Add More Fruits and Vegetables to Your Diet – Effortlessly!
Make it a point of having a fruit and a vegetable serving at each meal, starting with breakfast. Enjoy a vegetable omelet with fruit on the side or a banana berry smoothie.
Be generous when cooking with vegetables. Add extra to pasta, casserole, salad, stew and soup recipes.
Try new produce like broccoli rabe, jicama, garlic scapes, yucca, tomatillo, and star fruit.
Urge children to eat healthy snacks with pre-cut veggies in the refrigerator and fresh and dried fruit handy.
Add extra nutrition to pasta sauces, meatloaf, or baked goods with grated or pureed vegetables or fruit.
Fruit makes a great dessert by itself, or dress it up with ice cream or yogurt.
Learn more about building more nutrition with fruits and veggies at heart.org.
Let Us Help with Any Foot Pain
Foot or toe pain is not normal! If you have heel pain or plantar fasciitis, discomfort from arthritis, an injury or just from overuse, please call Michele Kurlanski, DPM at Lighthouse Foot and Ankle Center. Dr. Kurlanski offers expert and professional podiatry services in Cumberland County, Maine. Please call us today at 207-774-0028 to schedule your appointment in our Scarborough office.