Let's start off by saying that fruits and vegetables are an important part of our diet. They're also very easy to cook. Fruit and veggies are more than just something to add to your plate -- they can be a great source of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and antioxidants. And there’s even more to them. In fact, fruits and veggies have so many different flavors, textures, and colors that it’s no wonder they’re so popular.

In this post, we’ll explore the many benefits of fruits and vegetables in our daily lives. And if you or your little ones are having a little trouble eating fruits and veggies, we'll share some of the best ways to incorporate them into your diet. Lastly, we've also included some great recipes to bring some variety into your meals.

Why Are Fruits and Veggies Important?

It’s hard to deny the benefits of fruits and vegetables. They’re packed with nutrients, and they’re good for your health. In fact, fruits and veggies have been proven to be beneficial for your heart, brain, eyes, and bones.

Here are some of the reasons why fruits and veggies are so healthy:

1. Rich in antioxidants - Antioxidants are compounds that help fight free radicals. Free radicals are unstable molecules that can damage cells and cause disease. Fruits and veggies are rich in antioxidants, which help protect against cancer and other diseases.

2. Good for your heart - Fruits and veggies are a great source of potassium, which helps regulate your heartbeat and blood pressure. Potassium also helps maintain fluid balance in your body, which is important for your kidneys and muscles.

3. Fiber-rich - Fruits and veggies are high in fiber, which helps keep your digestive system working well. Fiber is also important for your skin and nails, not to mention your general health.

4. Rich in vitamins - Fruits and veggies are loaded with vitamins, such as vitamin C, vitamin A, vitamin B6, vitamin K, and folate. They also contain other important nutrients, such as calcium, iron, and magnesium.

5. Easy to digest - Fruits and veggies are easier to digest than other foods. They contain less fiber, protein, and fat, and they’re also low in calories.

6. Easy to cook - Fruits and veggies are easy to prepare. You don't need any special equipment to cook them. Simply wash them, chop them up, and add them to your favorite dishes.

7. Adds variety - Fruits and veggies can add variety to your meal. They can be added to salads, sandwiches, soups, stews, and even desserts. Here’s the catch: When you eat fruits and veggies, you get more than just energy. You also get a lot of nutrients and antioxidants that help keep you healthy.

8. Healthy snacks - Fruits and veggies are a great addition to your snack menu. As you'll see later, fruits and veggies can be used in many different ways. They can even be used to make some great finger foods.

How Can I Include More Fruits and Veggies in My Diet?

Fruits and veggies are an important part of any healthy diet. You don't have to eat them every day, but it's important to include them in your meal regularly. If you or someone in your family are a little bit picky when it comes to fruits and veggies, here are some tips to help you include more of them in your diet:

1. Make them fun - Children enjoy fruit and veggies when they’re presented in a fun way. Try adding fruits and veggies to your breakfast, lunch, and dinner menus. For example, serve bananas with yogurt, strawberries with cereal, or apples with peanut butter.

2. Be creative - Fruits and veggies can be used in many different ways. For example, you can make fruit kebabs or dip fruits and veggies in sauces. Or, try making a fruit and veggie smoothie.

3. Use them in recipes - If you want to use fruits and veggies in your everyday meals, try adding them to recipes. Fruits and veggies are great when they're cooked. Cooking them adds flavor and nutrients, and it makes them easier to digest.

4. Choose a variety - Don’t just pick one kind of fruit or vegetable. Try to include different types of fruits and veggies in your diet. This will give you a wider range of nutrients and flavors.

5. Buy them fresh - It’s always better to buy fresh fruits and veggies instead of canned or frozen. Fresh fruits and veggies are usually cheaper than their canned or frozen counterparts. As a result, you’ll save money while getting more nutrition.

6. Shop at farmers' markets - You can find many different types of fruits and veggies at local farmers' markets. These markets are a great place to buy fresh fruits and veggies because they usually offer them at lower prices.

7. Grow your own - If you want to grow your own fruits and veggies, you can do so in your backyard. There are many varieties of fruits and veggies that can be grown in your garden.

Recipes To Jumpstart Your Fruits and Vegetables Journey

Here are some recipes that you can use to jumpstart your journey to eating more fruits and veggies.

1. Strawberry Banana Smoothie - With 4 simple ingredients and less than five minutes of your time, you can make this classic strawberry banana smoothie.

2. Sweet Potato Black Bean Burger - Not mushy, not too salty, and not too sweet -- this sweet potato black bean burger is sure to please!

3. Tomato-Cucumber Gazpacho - Too many tomatoes? Turn them into gazpacho!

4. Watermelon Peach Salad - As refreshing as a summertime salad, this watermelon peach salad will make you feel like you’re on vacation.

5. Strawberry Guacamole - Level up your guacamole game with this strawberry guacamole recipe! Avocados are full of healthy fats, and strawberry is one of the best sources of vitamin C. Put them together, and you have a perfect combination of healthy fats and protein.

6. Grilled Peaches with Cinnamon Sugar Butter - Just like peaches, cinnamon has tons of health benefits. When combined, these two foods make a delicious dessert that’s packed with vitamins and minerals.

7. Spinach Hummus - Feel free to add other veggies to this spinach hummus recipe. Try carrots, broccoli, bell peppers, or zucchini.