When it comes to your well-being, fruits and vegetables are your best friends. Nutritionally speaking, they are the superstars of health. The American Institute for Cancer Research and the USDA recommend you eat at least five servings of fruit and vegetables a day. Here are some great ways to start the five-a-day approach: Throw some fruit, yogurt and ice in a blender and start the day off with a breakfast smoothie. Spruce up lunch by adding some crunch to your sandwiches - spinach and other salad greens liven up an average sandwich. Grab a bag of baby carrots to snack on when you get the munchies. Sweet red peppers and grape tomatoes add variety and the antioxidant lycopene. Eat a salad before you dive into your dinner, and if you're making a casserole, then try sneaking in shredded carrots, finely diced onions and peppers, or whatever else you like.
Veggies add flavor to plain old tomato sauce, and they kick up the nutrition of any dish. Stick a banana into the freezer to enjoy a frozen banana treat for dessert. Or dip apple slices in fat-free caramel sauce. Dark chocolate-dipped strawberries make a decadent dessert with the added benefit of polyphenols in the dark chocolate. Slip a whole piece of fruit in your handbag or briefcase, and keep some in your desk for when those afternoon munchies hit. Remember, fruits and vegetables come in a variety of colors, textures and flavors. Get creative and always keep fruits and veggies on hand to snack on.
