Why Are Fruits & Veggies Good For You?

Despite their wide-ranging health benefits, only 10 percent of people in the U.S. meet their targets for fruit and vegetable intake, according to a study published in the January 2009 issue of "Medscape." Low fruit and vegetable intake has been associated with a number of chronic diseases, namely diabetes, heart disease, and certain cancers. On the other hand, those that eat fruits and veggies by the bushel reap massive health rewards.

Heart Health

Fruit and vegetable intake is associated with lower risk of heart disease, according to the Harvard School of Public Health. Fruits and vegetables combat risk factors for heart disease, like high cholesterol, hypertension, high blood sugar levels and obesity.

Vision

Fruits and veggies that contain carotenoids, an antioxidant, can protect eye cells from oxidation, a harmful metabolic process that damages healthy cells, according to Harvard University. In particular, two compounds in fruits and vegetables, lutein and zeaxanthin, act as pigments in the human eye.

Consumption of lutein- and zeaxanthin-rich foods like spinach and kale has been associated with a decreased risk of the common eye disease macular degeneration, reports Harvard University.

Cancer

Harvard University reports that fruits and vegetables can protect against certain cancers. Although it reports that the research is far from clear, it appears that fruits and veggies may reduce the risk of developing esophageal, stomach and lung cancer.

It appears that the antioxidants within the pigments of fruits and vegetables combat free radicals. Free radicals are thought to damage DNA and begin the process of cancer development.

Colors

Colorful fruits and vegetables, like blueberries and bell peppers, are better choices than pale ones, like bananas and potatoes, according to North Dakota State University. Brightly colored produce tends to contain higher levels of vitamins and antioxidants.

It recommends you eat fruits and vegetables with a variety of colors like green spinach, orange tomatoes and red apples. Each color represent a set of vitamins and antioxidants -- each with a benefit to health. For example, the red in tomatoes is high in lycopene which may boost prostate health, according to Harvard University.

Servings

Harvard University recommends you consume at least nine servings of combined fruits and vegetables per day. Fruits and veggies are good for you because they are high in fiber, low in calories, rich in nutrients and combat many chronic diseases.