Did you know that 87% of Americans don’t consume enough vegetables, and 76% fall short on fruit intake? That’s a staggering statistic considering how essential these foods are for health, digestion, and overall well-being.
I get it—when I was a kid, I thought vegetables were slimy, mushy, and just plain gross. My mom boiled everything until it was nearly unrecognizable, and I had to drown broccoli in mayonnaise just to tolerate the taste. And salads? Forget it! I’d sit at the dinner table until 11:00 PM refusing to eat anything raw and green.
Why Fruits & Vegetables Matter for Your Health
Fast forward to today—I love vegetables! (Okay, maybe not salads due to allergies, but you get the point.) Once I learned better cooking methods and the science behind nutrition, I understood the power of colorful fruits & vegetables in our diet.
Here’s why fresh fruits and vegetables should be a daily priority:
✅ Nutrient Powerhouses: Packed with essential vitamins & minerals for overall body function
✅ Fiber for Gut Health: Acts like a “roto-rooter” for digestion, keeping intestines clean and supporting good gut bacteria
✅ Chlorophyll Benefits: Found in green veggies like spinach, broccoli, and asparagus, chlorophyll acts as a natural internal deodorizer
✅ Balances pH Levels: Green vegetables help shift your body toward an alkaline state, reducing inflammation, yeast overgrowth, and bone density loss
✅ Hydration Boost: Naturally high in water content, fresh produce supports hydration and overall health
How Much Do You Really Need?
On average, you should aim for:
🥦 9 servings of vegetables per day (1 cup raw or ½ cup cooked = 1 serving)
🍎 2 servings of fruit per day (1 cup of blueberries or 1 whole apple = 1 serving)
It may sound like a lot, but adding a big salad to one meal can help you reach your daily veggie intake quickly. Plus, non-starchy vegetables won’t cause weight gain—unlike potatoes and grains, especially when loaded with cheese or gravy!
Go Green for St. Patrick’s Day (and Beyond!)
In the spirit of St. Patrick’s Day, challenge yourself to eat more green veggies! Whether it’s fresh spinach in a smoothie, roasted Brussels sprouts, or sautéed asparagus, your body will thank you.
👉 What’s your favorite way to eat veggies? Let me know in the comments!
Medical Disclaimer: The information provided in this email is for informational purposes only and has been compiled from years of practice, study and experience by Mikell Suzanne Parsons, DC. This information is NOT intended to be used as a substitute for the advice from your physician or any other health care provider, or any information contained in or on any product label or packaging. Do not use information in this email for diagnosing or treating any health problem or disease. Always speak to your health care provider before taking any nutritional, herbal, or homeopathic supplement. If you have or suspect that you have a health problem, contact your health care provider immediately. Do not ignore seeking health care advice or delay seeking care because of something that you have read in this email. Information provided in this email DOES NOT create a doctor-patient relationship between you and Mikell Suzanne Parsons, DC. Information and statements regarding dietary supplements have not been evaluated by the Food and Drug Administration and are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.
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