Which Fruit or Vegetable is Better for You?

It's fair to say that reading a list of the "healthiest berries" or a list of "vegetables you didn't know were bad for you" really makes me feel crazy. I've seen countless articles like this in the popular media and each has a common goal - clicks. Articles uncovering hidden dangers in our food are one of the most common ways websites will grab your attention when it comes to nutrition and wellness. Right alongside these hidden dangers are lists of the healthiest fruits and vegetables that inevitably fail to mention that ALL fruits and vegetables have benefits. They also conveniently leave out the fact that nutrients are found in varying amounts in plants because they are different plants. That is the way it works and also one of the top reasons variety in the diet is key. It's a formula for nutrition articles that is likely never to stop, unfortunately. 

All fruits and vegetables are good for you.

Here's the thing: all fruits and vegetables are good for you. So, unless you're allergic or have an intolerance, you should be eating more. Why? Because if you're reading this then I would place my bet on the fact that you are not eating enough fruits and vegetables. The average American doesn't reach the recommended amount daily. As in...9 out of 10 of you do not eat enough fruits and vegetables. That is a shockingly high number! 

9 out of 10 Americans do not eat enough fruits and vegetables daily.

I once had someone reach out to me to ask which berry she should be eating because she read that some were healthier than others and my response was, eat the one that is #1 accessible and #2 delicious. For example, it really doesn't matter if you eat a blueberry or a strawberry or a raspberry. You eat a berry because all berries are known sources of antioxidants, they all contain fiber, and they all have vitamins that are beneficial to your health. So don't avoid buying the strawberries because some list told you they weren't as healthy as the blueberries. Just buy the berries that are readily available, fit your budget, and the ones you will actually enjoy eating. 

Instead of focusing on the completely normal differences in nutrients between varieties of fruits and vegetables, focus on increasing the amount of the fruits and vegetables in your diet. Don't rank your fruits and vegetables unless you're ranking them by taste or quantity in your diet.

There isn't a competition. They ALL win. (but only if you eat them!)

From a Realist,
Allison