Nutrition experts have urged New Zealanders to kickstart their day with a piece of fresh fruit to help improve their health and wellbeing this autumn. The Ministry of Health has also recommended that people eat five or more servings of vegetables and two servings of fruit every day.
However, 5+ A Day research showed that only 23 percent of New Zealanders eat the recommended daily intake of vegetables, and just 71 percent of us eat enough fruit.
“Apples, pears, feijoas, mandarins, and persimmons are in peak condition in autumn and packed full of vital nutrients,” said Dr Carolyn Lister, 5+ A Day Trustee, Principal Scientist, and Team Leader at Plant and Food Research.
“RubyRed kiwifruit and limes are also in season right now, and their vibrant colours are nature’s hint that they’re packed full of vitamins, minerals and phytochemicals, such as antioxidants, that are the key to maintaining good health.”
Having fresh fruit at breakfast is an easy way to boost your daily intake. You only need one other piece as a snack, and you’ve met your daily fruit goal.”
Buying fruit in season is the most economical way to shop as prices are at their lowest point.
“It’s certainly better to eat with the seasons, and we want to see all New Zealanders get the ideal nutritional intake every day.”
Olympian Dame Lisa Carrington is also helping 5+ A Day spread the word about the benefits of eating fresh fruit and vegetables.
“Filling your fruit bowl high with colourful fruit or arranging a beautiful platter of sliced produce is an easy way to encourage everyone to graze,” said Carrington.
“I also like to throw fruit into smoothies before training.”
Pears and persimmons are delicious additions to favourite breakfast cereals. They can be enjoyed with a dollop of yoghurt, a sprinkle of cinnamon, or ground LSA (linseeds, sunflower seeds, and raw almonds).
Feijoas, mandarins, and kiwifruit also pack a powerful nutritional punch at this time of year due to their high concentrations of vitamin C, which will help support the immune system during winter. Apples and their phytochemicals support healthy digestion and can reduce the risk of some chronic diseases.
“We’re encouraging everyone to look in their fruit bowl each morning and see what new breakfast ideas they can come up with using fresh seasonal produce to boost their overall daily fruit intake this autumn. Your body will thank you for it.”
