NAP- Neighborhood Alliance of Pawtucket

Fruits and Vegetables This Month and Every Month 

September is National Fruit and Veggies – More Matters month and we want to encourage eating those delicious foods this month and all year long. Numerous studies have shown that a diet rich in fruits and vegetables is a sure way to fight overweight and obesity. In addition you get many of the vitamins and minerals found in fruits and vegetables as part of your diet.  

There are numerous ways to benefit from eating fruits and vegetables without breaking your budget. You can grow your own by purchasing some seeds. Indoor pots or greenhouses can be used during the colder months. Picking your own at local farms in early fall is fun and less expensive. You can buy in bulk and freeze, can or dry for later. By creating a meal plan for the week, you can use similar fruits and vegetables prepared in a variety of ways. Always minimize waste by buying only the amounts your family will eat. 

Canned fruits and vegetables will last a long time in the pantry and can be a healthy addition to many meals. Choose canned vegetables that don’t have any salt, and fruit that is canned in 100% fruit juice. Frozen fruits and vegetables also store well in the freezer until you’re ready to add them to a meal. 

If you’re finding it challenging to convince your child to try vegetables – they seem to be more challenging than fruit - try being creative with how you serve them. Zucchini is delicious as a bread, raw veggies can be dipped in a favorite dressing, roasting (baking at a high heat) many vegetables in olive oil brings out their sweet flavor. Just season them with a bit of salt and pepper. When preparing soup add leafy greens like spinach or kale to make it heartier. Add craisins and sunflower seeds to salads for a bit of sweetness and crunch.  

Visit www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org for more information and ideas about increasing your fruit and vegetable consumption. Also contact randi.belhumeur@health.ri.gov for a link to the More Matters logo and catalog of materials to use with your own communication pieces.

September 11, 2009

Dear Arthur,

There is nothing more disconcerting than to see people being sold mounds of candy and Slim Jims in local variety stores.  Mr. Obama's health plan should address what is being sold at convenience store counters.

Peace,

Ludlow 1

Many convenience stores are selling fruit and vegetables now, but many areas feature fast food, tobacco products and all the bad stuff all too convenient for people to access.

A for effort for those who travel, but many people take the asy way out, so is it education of store owners along with resident demands for healthy or what?