Adding more fruits and vegetables to your life

It is so easy to say "Eat 5 servings of fruits and vegetables a day". But many have a hard time achieving this. It is not as difficult as you may think. Here is an example from today's presentation at the Marblehill senior center on this very topic.

Let me begin by telling you that these are very bright, fun and witty older adults. It was a pleasure talking to them on this topic. I began by asking them "why is it important to eat fruits and vegetables". They were highly participative with astute responses. Instead of me writing all the benefits for eating fruits and vegetables, check out these links:
http://www.mypyramid.gov/pyramid/vegetables_why.html
http://www.mypyramid.gov/pyramid/fruits_why.html

Then I provided them information to determine a serving size:
http://www.mypyramid.gov/pyramid/vegetables_counts.html
http://www.mypyramid.gov/pyramid/fruits_counts.html

I discussed choosing fruits and vegetables that are in season for the greatest taste, nutrients and best cost. Cost was a big concern for these adults. I discussed the benefits of purchasing frozen fruits and vegetables (maximized nutrients and minimized costs).

Finally, we talked about ways to incorporate fruits and vegetables into ones diet. To consume at least 5 servings a fruits and vegies, try to have one at breakfast, a mid-day fruit/vegie snack, one at lunch, two at dinner (always start your dinner with a salad) and a fruit dessert (like baked apples). Here are some other tips from mypyramid.gov:
http://www.mypyramid.gov/pyramid/vegetables_tips.html
http://www.mypyramid.gov/pyramid/fruits_tips.html

If these seniors are confident that they can eat at least 5 fruits and vegetables each day, so can you. It is healthy, tasty, filling and satisfying.