Is ‘an apple a day’ enough?

Study finds Americans aren't eating enough fruits and vegetablesA new government survey has found most Americans aren’t eating the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables.

A survey done by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention suggests most adults need to add more to their diet. Just 33 percent reported eating the recommended amount of fruit and 27percent said they eat enough vegetables.

“A diet high in fruits and vegetables is important for optimal child growth, maintaining a healthy weight, and prevention of chronic diseases such as diabetes, heart disease and some cancers, all of which currently contribute to healthcare costs in the United States,” said the CDC’s Dr. William Dietz.

Just how much do you need to eat everyday? The CDC says it depends on your age, sex and level of physical activity.

When adding more to your diet, think color. Eating fruits and vegetables of different colors gives your body a wide range of valuable nutrients, like fiber, folate, potassium as well as vitamins A and C.

And, remember, dried and frozen fruits are great alternatives when your favorites aren’t in season.ADNFCR-1960-ID-19387271-ADNFCR