Five easy pieces

Health experts are always telling us that five portions of fruit and vegetables a day keeps your body healthy, but what exactly counts as a portion?

A portion is roughly a handful - a handful of grapes for example, or one piece of medium-sized fruit, like an apple, banana, orange or peach. One tablespoon of dried fruit or a small glass of fruit or vegetable juice would count as another. A serving (roughly 100g) of vegetables with your dinner will also do the trick.

Don’t forget, almost all fruit and veggies count towards your five a day and they can be fresh, tinned, frozen, cooked, juiced or dried. You can also include any vegetables found in soups, stews, sandwiches and other snacks.

So why eat five portions of fruit and veg a day?

• They’re packed full of vitamins and minerals
• They can help maintain a healthy weight
• They’re a good source of antioxidants and fibre (to keep you calm and regular)
• They help reduce the risk of heart disease, strokes and some cancers
• There’s a lot of choice out there and they’re pretty tasty

Don’t cheat!

• Don’t count potatoes as these are starch.
• Don’t think that substituting vitamin pills or multi minerals will count - they don’t!
• Don’t rely too much on ready-made meals, they contain hidden salt and sugar.

For lots more information about this go to the NHS five-a-day information website.

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