Fruits and Veggies: How Much is Enough?
If you’re like the majority of Americans, you’re most likely not eating enough fruits and vegetables. Fruits & Veggies – More Matters, a national health observance that occurs every September, wants to change that.
Fruits and vegetables contain essential vitamins, minerals, fiber and other naturally occurring substances that may help prevent chronic diseases.
How Much is Enough?
According to MyPlate, the U.S. Department of Agriculture’s symbol for healthy eating, the recommended adult daily serving for fruits and vegetables are:
- Fruits
- Women: 2 cups (ages 19-30), 1 ½ cups (ages 31+)
- Men: 2 cups (ages 19+)
- Vegetables
- Women: 2 ½ cups (ages 19-50), 2 cups (ages 51+)
- Men: 3 cups (ages 19-50), 2 ½ cups (ages 51+)
What Counts as a Cup?
Fruits: In general, 1 cup of fruit of 100 percent fruit juice, or 1/2 cup of dried fruit can be considered as 1 cup.
Vegetables: In general, 1 cup or raw cooked vegetables or vegetable juice, or 2 cups of raw leafy greens can be considered as 1 cup from the vegetable group.