IARN — As the New Year quickly approaches, many will use the time as an opportunity to change eating habits to a healthier diet. Maintaining a healthier day-to-day lifestyle is a popular choice for New Year’s resolutions.
One option for people to consider is eating more produce. Consuming more produce is important, no matter it be organic or conventionally grown. Nutritionist Toby Amidor says a recent survey shows nutritionists agree on that.
“There was a survey of registered dieticians, Better Understanding Challenges of Increasing Fruit and Vegetable Consumption. And this was a study that was done by the Alliance for Food and Farming. It was done with 175 registered dieticians who responded to a web survey. All the participants had at least ten years of experience as a registered dietitian, and 97 percent stated that they worked directly with consumers and with the majority in the medical and healthcare fields. 99 percent of these registered dietitian agree that is it is extremely or very important to eat enough fruits and vegetables each day.”
Amidor explains that whether it be organic or conventional, it’s all safe to eat and good for your diet.
“95 percent agree that it’s important that consumers know that conventionally grown fruits and vegetables are safe to eat, because not all consumers feel they can afford organically grown produce. 94 percent agreed that fear-based messaging regarding pesticide residue has a negative impact on consumers because it causes concern about whether conventionally grown fruits and vegetables are safe to eat. 93 percent agree that consumer should eat more fruits and vegetables every single day whether it’s organic or conventionally grown. Both are safe and can absolutely be eaten with confidence.”
Studies show fruits and vegetables are a great source of vitamins and minerals, they are low-calorie and low-fat, and can protect against cancer and other diseases.
Story courtesy of the Iowa Agribusiness Radio Network.
Photo courtesy of ISU Extension
