NATIONAL EAT YOUR VEGETABLES DAY | JUNE 17

National Eat Your Vegetables Day on June 17th falls in the middle of National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month. Today’s celebration is one more opportunity to remind everyone to continue with this part of a healthy diet.

#EatYourVegetablesDay

Vegetables are an essential part of a healthy lifestyle.

As part of the main meal or as a snack, vegetables can be enjoyed in a variety of ways. Of course, each vegetable has its own nutritional content. Generally, they contain a little protein or fat and varying proportions of vitamins such as Vitamin A, Vitamin K and Vitamin B6, provitamins, dietary minerals, and carbohydrates. Interestingly, they also contain a variety of other phytochemicals, some of which have antioxidant, antibacterial, antifungal, antiviral and anticarcinogenic properties. In addition, many vegetables also contain fiber, which is important for gastrointestinal function. Another benefit is the essential nutrients that vegetables contain that are necessary for healthy hair and skin.

When eating a diet consisting of the recommended amounts of fruits and vegetables, it may help lower the risk of heart diseases and type 2 diabetes. These diets may also help to decrease bone loss and protect against some cancers. In addition, the potassium provided may help prevent the formation of kidney stones.

It is recommended by the USDA Dietary Guidelines for Americans to consume 3 to 5 servings of vegetables per day. However, this recommendation may vary depending on age and gender. For example, one serving of vegetables is equivalent of 1/2 to 1 cup and can be eaten either raw or cooked.

HOW TO OBSERVE EAT YOUR VEGETABLES DAY

Make sure you consume your recommended daily allowance of vegetables. What creative ways can you incorporate more vegetables into your diet? We compiled a few suggestions:

• Add veggies to your breakfast. Whether mixing spinach into your eggs or swapping out that muffin for a smoothie, you can get at least one serving in the morning.
• Skip the candy bar when you’re craving a snack. Instead, have some carrots, kohlrabi, or other fresh veggies to munch on.
• Another great snack is veggie chips. They not only reduce calories and fats, but they taste great, too.
• Swap out the French fries for a side salad at lunch or supper. If you’re having a baked potato, choose a sweet potato instead. 
• Use #EatYourVegetablesDay on social media.

Information above taken from: 
https://www.nationaldaycalendar.com/national-day/national-eat-your-vegetables-day-june-17