The amount of fruits and vegetables you need in a day will vary based on your age, gender, medical history and lifestyle factors. The truth is, many Americans do not come close to their recommended daily requirement for healthy living (approximately 2 cups of fruit and vegetables per day). Rather than focusing on the negative, aiming to increase your fruit and vegetable intake every day will keep you on track towards your health goals, that fit your preferences.

Some strategies and tips to increase or transform your fruit and vegetable intake:

• Become Aware- The first part to know if you are getting enough produce in one day is to keep track of what you are eating. This doesn’t have to be time intensive- just jot down the fruits and vegetables and the amount you eat in one day. If you find yourself having a small list, that’s a good indicator it’s time to bump it up!
• Make it a Challenge- If you’re like me and enjoy a good challenge, consider challenging yourself and others to a healthful fruit and veggie competition. Determine a set time frame and scoring system, then see who is willing to try it with you.
• Smoothies to Fruit Bars- Need an alternative to sugary popsicles or ice cream? Smoothies can be transferred to popsicle molds to be frozen and enjoyed as a summertime snack!
• Frozen fruit to syrup- Heating frozen fruit (1 cup) and adding a little honey or maple syrup (1 teaspoon) to it is a great way to make a “nutritional” syrup without all the added sugar. Use this on top of pancakes, waffles, breads, or even ice cream for another way to sneak fruit in.

Do you struggle with vegetable intake? Try different dips, best in moderation, to get the job done! Click here to view some healthy dip recipes from our Registered Dietitian, Jackie Genetin. 

Jackie Genetin, RDN, LD