Fruits and Vegetables

Information

The Food Guide Pyramid recommends 5 servings of fresh fruits and vegetables each day. That may sound like a lot, but the serving sizes are small. One serving equals about one-half cup of cooked or 1 cup of raw vegetables. One-cup of leafy vegetables is a serving. A medium piece of fruit is a serving. One-half cup of canned fruit or one-quarter cup of dried fruit is a serving.

Most people eat only about half of the recommended amount. Adding more fresh fruits and vegetables to your daily diet can contribute many health benefits.

Canned and/or frozen fruits and vegetables can be good choices when certain fruits and vegetables are out of season. Choose canned fruits packed in fruit juice or light syrup. Vegetables should be canned without salt or fat.

Fresh fruits and vegetables contain different amounts of healthy nutrients. Consuming a variety makes for a healthy choice that can make big differences in overall health.