Copyright Andrew_B, Flickr.com
This is week 4 of 52 Weeks of Self-Care.
Eating fruits and vegetables was a struggle for me for a long time. Nearly two years ago, I set out to change my health—particularly by changing my weight. Now, fruits and vegetables make up a large portion of my daily intake. Still, I know I should eat more of them. Not only are they full of vitamins, but they are typically high in fiber, helping you feel fuller longer. Yes, I need some of that, please.
The American Cancer Society (ACS), American Heart Association, Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics (formerly the American Dietetic Association), and just about every other health acronym you can dream up recommends a diet high in plant sources. The ACS suggests five or more servings of fruits and vegetables every day. Don’t fret; servings are likely not as huge as you’re imagining, and there are lots and lots of ways to increase your daily fruit and veggie consumption. (More Matters is an excellent resource for recipes, money-saving and shopping tips, vegetable garden instructions, myths, etc.)
This week, try to eat three more servings of fruits and vegetables—preferably a rainbow, or colorful selection, of them—each day. That’s only 1.5 more cups daily; you can do it. Your body and mind will thank you.
Joni Watson, MSN, MBA, RN, OCN®, is a clinical nurse manager for University Medical Center Brackenridge in Austin, TX, part of the Seton Healthcare Family of Hospitals. Joni holds her degrees from the University of Texas at Arlington and the University of Texas at Tyler and is a member of the Central Texas ONS chapter (CTONS). She resides in Austin and enjoys reading, shoe shopping, and spending time with her family. You can also find Joni at http://nursetopia.net.