International Year of Fresh Fruits & Veggies

After a year of health being one of, if not the number one topic of discussion, it is no surprise that 2021 has been awarded the title of the International Year of Fruits & Vegetables by the United Nations. Fruits and vegetables are at the center of any healthy diet, as much research has shown the link between those who eat a diet filled with produce typically have fewer chronic health conditions than those who don’t. According to their website, “The United Nations is marking 2021 as the International Year of Fruits and Vegetables, spotlighting their vital role in human nutrition and food security, as well as urging efforts to improve sustainable production and reduce waste.” As a fresh produce delivery service, we are elated that the message regarding the importance of eating healthy foods is being spread around the globe, and we will continue doing our best to ensure that fruits and vegetables are accessible to everyone, starting within the U.S. 

Considering the COVID-19 pandemic struck a worldwide note, people everywhere are waking up to just how critical maintaining and promoting a healthy lifestyle is to well-being. Weakened immune systems brought on by a poor diet leads to chronic health conditions, as well as the body becoming more susceptible to illnesses. A diet that is consistently fueled with nutritious foods keeps the body’s defense system high and able to fight off a number of diseases. That’s why it is so important to prioritize eating healthy foods, namely colorful, fresh produce on a daily basis, as it can greatly help reduce inflammation in your body, which is often at the root cause of poor health conditions. 

What is inflammation?

Inflammation is the body’s immune system response to fighting off potentially hazardous infections, toxins, injuries, and damaged cells, in its attempt to heal and protect itself. Antibodies, certain proteins, and increased blood flow are released to help address and heal the site where foreign substances have invaded the body. Once the body’s biological response is triggered, the body goes into a state of alert, and the inflammation may last for a few hours or a lifetime depending on whether it is acutely or chronically inflamed. 

Benefits of Eating More Fruits & Veggies

Eating fruits and vegetables are key to keeping a healthy mind and body. These foods provide the body with all of the vitamins and minerals it needs to support health and healing. Not to mention, produce reduces inflammation, offers the body higher hydration levels, and even better digestion.

Reducing inflammation 

Depending on your food choices, you can significantly reduce or prevent your body from going into an inflammatory state. The severity of inflammation is strongly correlated with the foods we eat, environmental factors, and not to mention the level to which we workout and exercise our bodies. And considering our complex, unique, biological systems work to keep the body balanced and in a state of homeostasis, eating fruits and vegetables is truly one of the easiest ways to reduce inflammation and keep our body in a healthy state. So be sure to eat more fresh produce containing high anti-inflammatory properties and antioxidants. 

Higher hydration

Choosing to eat fruits and vegetables that are naturally filled with water is an easy way to stay hydrated without having to focus on drinking from a bottle. Being that the human body is made up of 60% water, it plays a critical role in your overall health and its bodily processes. Fresh produce offers not only the fluids and electrolytes needed to keep your body functioning, but the water found in produce (especially fruits) is one of the best hydration sources available! Snack on your favorite fruits like apples, oranges, and pears to effortlessly increase your water levels and reduce sugar cravings. 

Better digestion

According to the CDC, over 22 million Americans visit doctors’ offices yearly expressing digestive system issues, which result in digestive-related diseases. The human body, along with all animals on our planet, follow the principle of what goes in, must go out, meaning that healthy digestion is imperative for the overall functioning of the beautifully designed individual. For humans, eating fresh produce regularly is a simple lifestyle practice that can aid in digestion. Fruits and vegetables are filled with plenty of fiber, which helps to keep our digestive system running smoothly and allows the body to remove waste. A healthy digestive system leads to stronger immunity, healthier skin and hair, as well as better energy levels. 

How To Eat More Produce 

For those who haven’t yet embarked on the health journey, the idea of eating more produce may be daunting and overwhelming. There is a fair share of people who do not have access to the knowledge that teaches them the benefits of a diet rich in nutritious foods. This comes as no surprise when we acknowledge that over 23 million Americans live in a food desert, and have little to no access when it comes to healthy food options. This is where we come in! Our service FarmboxRx makes it simpler than ever to order fruits and vegetables online. We bring fresh produce delivered to your door weekly with a variety of tasty, seasonal fruits and veggies. Choose your box size & type, and shipping frequency, and that’s it! This is one way to eat more produce.

Another tip for eating more produce is to thoughtfully add at least 1-2 servings to each meal, be it your breakfast, lunch, dinner, or snacks. There is a misconception that fruits and vegetables should be eaten later in the day, when in fact they are truly a brilliant option for making your breakfasts more healthy. Whether it is a serving of fresh fruit alongside your oatmeal or cereal, or even some veggies on your toast or in an omelet. Add a side salad or your favorite veggie as a snack to your lunches, and for dinner, intentionally focus on making sure at least half of your plate is filled with veggies. 

Celebrate the International Year of Fresh Fruits & Veggies by making it a priority to incorporate at least 5 servings into your daily diet. Happy eating everyone!