Raw fruits and vegetables are an important part of a nutritious diet. They are full of vitamins, minerals and fiber, all of which are monumental in meeting daily nutritional needs and allowing your body to function at peak capacity. Vegetables and fruits are also naturally low in calories and most contain no fat, which is beneficial for sticking to a healthy menu.
Healthy Diet
As part of a healthy diet, fruits and vegetables are the centerpiece. The Produce for Better Health Foundation recommends filling half your plate with fruits and vegetables at every meal. Cooked or uncooked produce will meet this requirement equally, though the uncooked option contains more vitamins and minerals; some nutritional value can be lost during the cooking process.
Combine fruits and veggies with other important components of a healthy diet: low-fat dairy, whole grains and lean meats, poultry or fish.
Organic Produce
It's important to be sure that the raw produce you're eating has been adequately rinsed or washed to remove dirt, bacteria or other substances. Purchasing organic produce may be a possible way to reduce your intake of harmful substances used in the production of fruits and vegetables, though its effectiveness has not been proven. Organic produce refers to how the produce has been farmed, in terms of restricted pesticide and food additive usage, and an environmentally beneficial farming process.
Benefits of Fiber
The high fiber content of raw fruits and vegetables helps you to feel full, so you are less likely to get hungry and binge between meals. Fiber is also important for regularity and to prevent bloating. If you suffer from irritable bowel syndrome, the fiber in fruits and veggies may help to relieve symptoms.
Menu Ideas
Raw fruits and vegetables are great for snacks. Keep a supply of pre-chopped veggies -- like carrots, celery sticks or pepper slices -- in your refrigerator for convenience. Fruits that don't need preparation -- apples, bananas, pears or peaches -- are a snack that you can easily grab on your way out the door. Add berries to your breakfast cereal. Top pizza with broccoli florets, tomato slices or spinach.
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