Is your state meeting its fruit and veggie goal?

The answer is no. According to Healthy People 2010, there is not one state in the country that meets the national goals for daily fruit and vegetable consumption. The goals are 2 fruits a day and 3 vegetables a day.

As seen in this chart, we are 50% below these goals.

Sorry news for March as it's National Nutritional Month®

Eating healthy requires eating fruits and vegetables, not vitamins, not supplements, not veggie drinks.

Produce provide us with vitamins, minerals, fiber, and plenty of disease-fighting antioxidants. In fact, it's well established that people who eat vegetables daily, as part of an overall healthy diet, are likely to reduce their risk of many chronic illnesses, including type 2 diabetes, and cardiovascular disease.

Here are few health tips that may come in handy next time you are at the grocery store:

1. Look for fresh fruits and vegetables when you can. In colder months, canned fruits and vegetables can be a great option, but be sure to look for labels that read "packed in its own juices" or "unsweetened." You'll save on calories and get a truer taste.


2. Frozen vegetables and fruits are also a wonderful option, especially in the winter months. Look for "naked" vegetables, rather than vegetables in cream or cheese sauces. Go a clean taste and you get way fewer calories.


3. Canned soups and vegetables can be quick and easy, the healthiest option is to choose low-sodium versions.

*Tips adapted from the ADA