The MyPlate recommends to fill half your plate with fruits and vegetables with meals and snacks throughout the day. The vegetable group is made up of 5 subcategories:
1) Dark Green
2) Red and Orange
3) Starchy
4) Beans and Peas
5) Other
Vegetables are divided into these subgroups based on nutrient content. Red and Orange vegetables are a good source of:
Vitamin A: Keeps eyes and skin healthy and helps protect against infections.
Vitamin C: Helps heal cuts and wounds and keeps teeth and gums healthy.
Pumpkins!
Did you know?
The bright orange color of pumpkin is a dead giveaway that pumpkin is loaded with an important antioxidant, beta-carotene which is converted to vitamin A in the body.
Current research indicates that a diet rich in foods containing beta-carotene may reduce the risk of developing certain types of cancer and offers protect against heart disease. Beta-carotene offers protection against other diseases as well as some degenerative aspects of aging.
Pumpkins are available fresh and canned for good nutrition and convenience. If selecting fresh, choose pumpkins that are firm and heavy for their size.
Nutrient Content Claims
Low in calories, Fat free, Saturated fat free, Cholesterol free, Sodium free, High in vitamin A, Good source of vitamin K
