Recently, shortly after the start of the school year, I heard many people complaining about various troubles. One of these troubles, which has personally affected me, is the "10-pound weight gain during holidays". Obesity not only affects our appearance, but also our health. Huada has always been dedicated to creating a healthy environment with few illnesses, and where one can enjoy a healthy lifestyle and maintain physical and mental wellness. As a member of Huada, I feel obligated to share my knowledge of health with others.
I recall the previous call from the National Health and Family Planning Commission to increase daily fruit and vegetable intake to "half a pound of fruit and a pound of vegetables". However, many were shocked and expressed their inability to meet such requirements. Why do we need to eat half a pound of fruit and a pound of vegetables every day? How should we eat this amount? Let us listen to Huada's nutritionist, Liu Pingping, for her insight.
Why do we need to eat half a pound of fruit and a pound of vegetables every day?
Fruits and vegetables are rich in vitamins, minerals, and dietary fiber, providing the body with micronutrients it needs. They also contain various phytochemicals, organic acids, aromatic substances, and pigments that enhance appetite, aid digestion, and promote overall health. Evidence-based research has shown that increasing the intake of fruits and vegetables can maintain overall health and effectively reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cardiovascular disease, lung cancer, and diabetes.
However, the average vegetable intake in our country is
decreasing, and fruit intake remains low. According to the results of the
2010-2012 China National Nutrition and Health Survey, the average daily
vegetable and fruit intake per capita for urban and rural residents was 269.7g
and 40.7g, respectively, both below the recommended amounts of the China
Dietary Guidelines (300-500g and 200-350g). Compared to 2002, the intake of
vegetables and fruits has not increased significantly.