The next band on Mypyramid (http://www.mypyramid.gov/) is the red band that urges us to eat more fruit. Fruit is a healthy and delicious snack when hunger strikes. All forms of fruit such as blueberries, strawberries and blackberries to apples, oranges and pears can make a healthy snack any time. They do not need to be cooked and can be eaten anywhere. It is recommended that we eat a variety of fruits in all colors just like vegetables. All fruits are filled with phytochemicals, vitamins, minerals and fiber that help decrease the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease and stroke. Serving sizes are 1 cup of cut-up fruit or a 1/2 cup of dried fruit.It is recommended that we choose whole fruit instead of fruit juices. Most juices are not 100 percent juice and contain high fructose corn syrup and other unnecessary additives. These juices contain little or no fiber; whole fruit is abundant with it. The best way to keep fruit on your mind is to have a bowl of whole fruit on the kitchen table. People are more likely to eat it if it is one of the first food items they see.
Healthy Action Step: Visit your local farmer’s market and buy some locally grown fruit. Place it in a bowl on you kitchen table. Eat one of these fruits as a snack or with your lunch. To find a farmer’s market near you visit http://www.localharvest.org/.
