June is National Fruit and vegetable month! As a reminder, a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can lower blood pressure, reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, prevent some types of cancer, lower risk of eye and digestive problems, and have a positive effect on blood sugar.
As we enter the summer months, many favorite fruits and vegetables are back in season. June is a fruit-heavy month. Apricots, blueberries, cantaloupe, cherries, kiwi, mangoes, peaches, strawberries, and watermelon are all fresh and in season! For vegetables, you might be able to find local arugula, spinach, lettuce, spinach, Swiss chard, and watercress now, depending on where you live. Artichokes, asparagus, and eggplant are also popular this month. While herbs are available all season, it is a great time of year to plant your own. Herbs coming into season now include chervil, chives, dill, green onions, mint, scallions, sorrel, and thyme.
Try to celebrate national fruit and vegetable month by trying one new fruit or veggie each week.
Here are a few tips to eat more fruits and vegetables:
- Place fruit where you can see it
- Explore and choose something new, try to get at least one serving from each of the following categories: dark green leafy vegetables; yellow or orange fruits and vegetables; red fruits and vegetables; legumes (beans) and peas; and citrus fruits
- Mix a lot of veggies and make it a meal! Try making salads, soups, or stir-fries to increase the number of tasty vegetables in your meals
