The food that we consumed today is farther away from nature. No matter how healthy we try to shop, the food that we find on the shelves of grocery stores is mostly processed. Processed foods are loaded with additives that eventually harm our bodies in multiple ways. In the other case, when we do not make an effort to do groceries, it most definitely leads to a cheese-loaded pizza for dinner. Studying the effects of processed foods and junk food on our bodies is frightening. No wonder there are higher risks of heart diseases, diabetes, and obesity in recent times. The best solution for this is to consume a diet that is more in line with nature. Fruits & vegetables are therefore your best food options. Here are 10 reasons why you should incorporate fruits & veggies into your everyday diet.
1. Great Sources Of Vitamins & Minerals
Both fruits and vegetables are loaded with vitamins and minerals that are necessary for our body. Finding a better nutritional source than these food groups is quite a task. Fruits and veggies contain large amounts of vitamins A, C, and E. In addition to that, they also contain zinc, phosphorous, magnesium, and folic acid, and other compounds which are all very beneficial. Avocadoes, tomatoes, bananas, and potatoes for instance are great sources of potassium which is necessary for the body.
2. Textures & Flavors
The colors, unique textures, and flavors make plant-based food not only healthy to consume but a very interesting kitchen ingredient. You will be able to get creative in the kitchen with the strong flavors of onions, garlic, and peppers. Or you can choose milder options that suit your taste like corns and mushrooms. If you want to add some sweetness to your breakfast, lunch, or dinner, you can go with the fruit options. You can use plums, pineapples, or grapes for that. Lastly, if you want to enjoy a sour taste, lemons are grapefruits will come to the rescue.
3. Great Source Of Fiber
Be it veggies or fruits, both are great sources of fiber. Fiber is an important nutrient for the body which comes with many health benefits. If the body is not getting the required amounts of fiber, it can lead to some serious problems. Vegetables usually contain more fiber as compared to fruits. Therefore, vegetables protect gut health. In addition to that, vegetables can fill you up for longer periods, hence, proving to be helpful for weight loss. Some vegetables that are rich in fiber include cauliflower, green peas, and broccoli. The fruits that contain high amounts of fiber include apples, pears, pumpkin, and raspberries.
4. Protection Against Diseases
Plant-based foods contain phytochemicals. Phytochemicals are substances that are biologically active and can protect against several diseases. That is why, plant-based foods are considered great for the prevention of cancer, diabetes, heart diseases, high blood pressure, etc. Cruciferous vegetables, such as broccoli, collards, and cabbage, are highly considered as cancer-preventing foods. That is why a fixed portion of your regular diet should consist of these food groups. Taking preventive measures to avoid a disease is easier than curing a disease.
5. Low In Calories
These food groups are fairly low in calories and fats and that is why they should be your first choice when you are trying to lose weight. Plant based foods contain the minimum number of calories and are also good to keep you hydrated. Incorporating them into your diet means that you will remain full for a longer period of time and that too, by consuming a small number of calories. Fruits are good to curb your sugar cravings. You can have a cup of grapes instead of M&Ms and gain several benefits from it along with satisfying your sweet tooth. However, there are some exceptions. Olives, coconut, and avocadoes for instance contain a large number of calories and will not aid weight loss.
6. Necessary To Maintain Good Health
Fruits and veggies have amazing nutritional properties which make them ideal to maintain good health. These foods are very low in salts, sugars, and saturated fats which is the reason why they pose minimum health risks. They do not only cure diseases but also protect the body against diseases by supplying antioxidants. Fruits and vegies will help you to decrease inflammation, as well as lower blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Consuming a plant-based diet can also help you to enjoy a longer life.
7. Low In Sodium & Cholesterol
The amount of sodium in fresh fruits is almost negligible. The same is the case with vegetables. The trace amounts of sodium present in these foods make them favorable for health. Celery, which is considered to contain the highest amount of sodium, contains 30 mg of sodium in one stalk. This contributes 1% of the daily requirement. Cholesterol, on the other hand, is completely absent in these plan-based items. You can consume these foods without the fear of high cholesterol.
8. Convenient & Easy To Access
Plant-based foods are literally available wherever you go. They are easy to access, unlike any other food. No matter wherever you live, enjoy the regional and seasonal veggies and fruits to the full extent. You will notice visible changes in your health after you adapt to a plant-based diet. If you are not used to consuming these foods at all, begin by incorporating small amounts. Make sure to include at least some portion of these foods into your diet.
9. Nutritious In All Forms
You can freeze, can, or dry your these foods, and they will give you complete nutrition in all forms. Freezing and canning the vegetables will increase their life and will also make them convenient to use. Dehydrated fruits also have a longer shelf life. The frozen and canned products are usually processed within hours of harvest. That is why the nutrition is immediately locked in.
10. Smoothies!
If you have a blender, all you need is some ice and fruits to make a delicious smoothie. Smoothies are probably the most convenient and fun way of consuming plant-based foods. The best part is that you can choose your favorite flavor and prepare your smoothie instantly, anywhere you are.
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