| 5 A Day For Better Health Program
 Mission:
To encourage Americans to eat 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables
every day for better health.
Public Health Issue: Eating fruits and vegetables can reduce the
risk of many chronic diseases. In 1997, only 27% of Virginians were eating
5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables every day. These results underscore
the importance of encouraging individuals to eat 5 or more servings of
fruits and vegetables daily for better health.
Health Benefits:
Eating five or more servings of fruits and vegetables can reduce the risk
of chronic diseases, such as heart disease and cancer.
- The National Cancer Institute attributes 35% of all cancer deaths
in the U.S. to diets that are high in fat and low in fruit, vegetables
and fiber. People who eat more fruits and vegetables may have approximately
one-half the risk of cancer compared to those who do not.
- Heart disease is the leading cause of death in Virginia. Eating a
diet high in fruits and vegetables may reduce the risk of heart disease
by 20-40%. Fruits and vegetables contain antioxidants and phytochemicals,
which may play a protective role against cardiovascular disease.
Fruits and vegetables may also play a preventive role in birth defects,
cataract formation, hypertension, asthma, diverticulitis, obesity, and
diabetes.
What is a serving?
- a medium piece of fruit
- 1/2 cup cooked or raw fruit or vegetable
- 3/4 cup (6 ounces) juice
- 1 cup leafy greens
- 1/4 cup dried fruit
- 1/2 cup cooked beans or peas (such as lentils, pinto beans, kidney
beans)
Here's What You Can Do...
- Eat fruit and drink 100% fruit juice for breakfast.
- Eat fruit and vegetables as a snack.
- Buy fresh, frozen, canned, and dried fruits and vegetables when you
go to the store.
- Put fruits and vegetables in easy reach where you will see them.
- Steam or microwave fruits and vegetables for 5 minutes.
Virginia
Dept. of Health
| Office of Family Health Services
© Commonwealth of Virginia |
