Focus on Fruits and Vegetables

Focus on Fruits and Vegetables

-by Iris Ruiz

JAMESTOWN, NEW YORK (May 29, 2015) -- Cornell Cooperative Extension Chautauqua County’s EFNEP Program is excited about the start of the Farmers Market season. With the warmer weather here, the Farmer’s Markets are now open for the season, selling a nice variety of fruits and vegetables for the consumers to purchase and enjoy.

People who eat more vegetables and fruits as part of an overall healthy diet are likely to have a reduced risk of some chronic diseases. Fruits provide nutrients vital to health, such as potassium, dietary fiber, vitamin c, and folate (folic acid). Most fruits are naturally low in fat, sodium, and calories. None have cholesterol.

Keep a bowl of whole fruit on the table, counter, or in the refrigerator. Add vegetables to soups, casseroles, pizza, stir-fry’s and enchiladas. Let children choose a new vegetable or fruit for a meal.

Save money when buying vegetables and fruits, by buying fresh produce in season. Washed, sliced, chopped and shredded fresh vegetables and fruits cost more so prepare the fruits and vegetables yourself at home.

The EFNEP Program is one of many programs offered by Cornell Cooperative Extension of Chautauqua County (CCE-Chautauqua). CCE-Chautauqua is a community based educational organization, affiliated with Cornell University, Chautauqua County Government, the NYS SUNY system, and the federal government through the United States Department of Agriculture’s National Institute of Food and Agriculture. For more information, call 716-664-9502 or visit our website at www.cce.cornell.edu/chautauqua. Cornell University Cooperative Extension provides equal program and employment opportunities.

Last updated August 5, 2015