Getting some extra fruit, vegetable, and fiber servings

Who needs more fruit, vegetable, and fiber servings?

* Anyone concerned with immune system health
* Anyone who does not eat enough fruit in his or her daily diet
* Anyone who wants to increase his or her dietary intake of antioxidants to aid the body in ridding itself of harmful free radicals
* Anyone who suffers from occasional constipation or diarrhea
* Anyone participating in a weight-management program consisting of a healthy diet and exercise that wants to add fiber to his or her diet

THE ISSUE:
Fruit and vegetable consumption across the U.S. continues to be a challenge for many Americans. According to surveys conducted by the CDC from 1996 to 2000, more than 75% of Americans failed to consume the minimum recommended five servings a day of fruit and vegetables. Since those studies were conducted, the USDA recommendations for daily intake of fruits and vegetables have been increased to eight to 10 servings per day. Every day, more nutrition experts are recommending individuals increase their daily dietary intake of fruits and vegetables, especially those having the brightest colors. The most intensely colored fruits and vegetables have been found to possess the highest levels of protective phytonutrients plus elevated levels of powerful antioxidants, yet few individuals manage to incorporate these foods into their diet.

In addition to the decline in fruit and vegetable consumption, Americans do not consume an adequate amount of fiber in their diet. The American Dietetic Association recommends consuming 25 to 30 grams of fiber per day, however the typical American diet only contains 12 to 17 grams per day. Low fiber intake is associated with constipation, weight gain and a host of other problems. Consequently, diets high in fiber have been shown to help maintain cholesterol, improve digestion and dramatically support healthy weight loss. Most Americans do not eat enough fruits, vegetables or whole grains to consume the recommended amount of fiber in the diet. In addition, the typical American diet includes foods that are heavily processed, reducing much of the already minimal fiber content.