You’ve probably been told from a young age that you need to eat your veggies. And you may have wondered just as long why you need to eat those vegetables.

June is National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month, so we’re going to seize the opportunity at AFC Urgent Care Lake Oswego to share some insight about the importance of filling your plate with these healthy foods.

Why Are Fruits and Veggies Good for You?

Both types of food are vitally important for your health because they’re packed with a plethora of nutrients, minerals, vitamins and antioxidants. Did you know, though, that’s it also important to eat a wide variety of these foods?

It’s true! Each hue of fruits and vegetables contains unique and distinct nutrients, so “eating the rainbow,” so to speak, can help ensure you get all the healthy stuff you need. And you might be surprised by what makes up a serving size!

Fruit & Veggie Serving Size

• One medium apple
• One small banana
• Half a medium avocado
• Half a medium grapefruit
• 16 grapes
• Four large strawberries
• Six baby carrots
• Half a large bell pepper
• One small ear of corn
• Half a large sweet potato

Does It Matter If Produce Is Fresh or Frozen?

No, actually. While you might think fresh fruits and veggies are best, the frozen varieties are typically picked at their optimum nutrition point and quickly frozen. So, they retain their nutritional value.

But the trick is to find varieties of frozen—and even canned—fruits and vegetables that do not contain sauces or syrups. It’s also a good idea to look for added ingredients that may up your sodium or sugar intake.

Fruits & Veggies in Season

• Apricots
• Asparagus
• Beats
• Blueberries
• Broccoli
• Cabbage
• Carrots
• Cherries
• Lettuce
• Nectarines
• Onions
• Peas

Feeling under the weather? Schedule an AFC TeleCare appointment with AFC Urgent Care Lake Oswego to get the care you need from the comfort of home.