Choose Healthy Greens This St. Patrick's Day

This St. Patrick’s Day and beyond, choose to eat more green fruits and vegetables. Fruits and vegetables are nutrient-dense — meaning they contain vitamins, minerals, and other health-promoting components and have no or little added sugars, saturated fat, and sodium. They also contain lots of fiber, which can improve both cardiovascular and gut health.

People who eat more nutrient-dense foods in their overall diet live generally healthier lives, with a lower risk of chronic illnesses like heart disease and even some cancers.

The 2020-2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans advises that adults eat 1.5–2 cup-equivalents of fruits and 2–3 cup-equivalents of vegetables daily. If you’re ready to eat more fruits and veggies, then you’re in luck — there’s a huge variety of nutritious and delicious foods to choose from.

Choose green vegetables like leafy greens, broccoli, brussel sprouts, green beans, zucchini, cucumber, green onions, cabbage, okra, asparagus, celery, green peppers, jalapenos, peas, and more. Green fruits can include kiwi, limes, green apples, green grapes, honeydew melon, avocados, pears, guava, and more. Try buying in-season, bulk, canned, or frozen produce to customize meals for your unique tastes and budget.

Eating healthy doesn’t have to be complicated or boring. A healthy eating style can be as unique as you! Personalize your plate today and every day for good health.

Learn more about healthy eating habits at MyPlate.gov. Talk to your primary care provider about how to incorporate healthy eating habits into your routine, or schedule an appointment with a Registered Dietitian (RD) at UP Health System. Click the Find a Provider tab to get connected with the care you need.