Simple Guide to Eating More Fruits and Vegetables

We are truly lucky to live in Yolo County. Our region is home to hundreds of farming families, and famous for producing fruits and vegetables for California and the entire nation. Delicious, fresh produce is close by and easily accessible in stores and Farmers’ Markets throughout the area! This month, join us in celebrating Fruits & Veggies – More Matters Month by eating a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables. You can help lower your risk for heart disease, type 2 diabetes, obesity, high blood pressure and some types of cancer.

Ways to Eat More Fruits and Veggies

Back-to-School Lunches – Skip the junk food and add one more fruit or vegetable to your kid’s lunch, like celery with peanut butter or sliced apples. September is Childhood Obesity Month. Pledge Now to fight childhood obesity in your family!

Smoothie Break – Blend your favorite berries, fruits, leafy greens like spinach and kale and even avocado together for a refreshing, powerful punch of nutrients. Get creative and find your favorite smoothie blend.

Meatless Mondays – Try going meatless on Mondays and doubling up on fruits and veggies once a week. Stuffed bell peppers, black bean veggie burgers or a summer squash sauté (recipe below) are healthy alternatives that are deliciously satisfying.

Recipe – Andrea’s Colorful Summer Squash Sauté

Ingredients:

• 2 tbsp olive oil
• 1 onion, thinly sliced
• 2 cloves of finely minced garlic and/or 1 tsp finely minced, fresh ginger
• 3-4 summer squashes, thinly sliced – 5-6 cups
• 1 chopped red bell pepper

Directions:

• Heat olive oil in a large pan over medium heat until shimmering
• Add onions and stir for 3-4 minutes
• Add garlic and sliced squash one cup at a time while stirring
• After 2-3 minutes, add red pepper. Stir until soft and squash is translucent
• Add salt and pepper to taste

Recipe by CommuniCare Nutrition Supervisor Andrea Ransdell

It’s easy to find fruits and vegetables in season and local farmers markets in your area. Most have low prices and accept EBT. Find yours below.

Woodland – www.thewoodlandfarmersmarket.org
Davis – www.davisfarmersmarket.org
West Sacramento – www.facebook.com/WestSacFM

CommuniCare helps your family stay healthy. We offer wellness check-ups for all ages, and health education to help you learn more about what your body needs to keep healthy. See our health care services here and call us today to make your wellness appointment. Locations in Davis, Woodland and West Sacramento.