The USDA MyPlate recommendations act as a guide for a healthy eating regimen.
But are they realistic?
The nutrition experts will agree that filling half of your plate with fruits and vegetables is a no-brainer for healthy eating. The challenge for many people is this: if it's not fresh and organic, should you eat it?
Research conducted by UC Davis, published in the Journal of Science and Agriculture found that -- contrary to popular belief -- there may be more loss of nutrients in fresh produce, and freezing and canning may actually preserve nutrient value.
Often consumers complain that fresh produce can be too expensive, and in some instances, it may be – especially when purchasing a fruit or vegetable that is not in season in your region. However, it becomes even more costly when it merely rots in the crisper drawer and ends up in the garbage. Packed produce also ensures 100 percent edible parts of the plants – no waste.
"It can be much easier to get people to fill half their plate with fruits and vegetables using canned or frozen produce for many reasons: cost, less plant waste, consistency of taste, already cut, and ease of cooking," says Elizabeth Pivonka, a registered dietitian and President of the Produce for Better Health Foundation.
Felicia Stoler, PhD, joins Melanie Cole, MS, to reassure you that if eating frozen or canned fruits and vegetables is an easier fit for your lifestyle, then you should go for it without feeling guilty.
Food Fight: Fresh vs. Frozen vs. Canned
When it comes to your daily servings of fruits and veggies, convenience is as important as taste. But is it as healthy?
Additional Info
- Segment Number: 1
- Audio File: train_your_body/1417tb2a.mp3
- Featured Speaker: Felicia Stoler, PhD
- Organization: ACSM
- Book Title: Living Skinny in Fat Genes
- Guest Website: Felicia Stoler
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Guest Bio:
Dr. Felicia Stoler is a registered dietitian, exercise physiologist and expert consultant in disease prevention, wellness and healthful living. She has a Bachelor's from Tulane University, a Masters in applied physiology and nutrition from Columbia University and her Doctorate in clinical nutrition from UMDNJ. Felicia serves on many local, state and national committees related to health and wellness. Felicia is a member of the American College of Sports Medicine and is a Fellow of the ACSM. Felicia is a member of the Academy of Nutrition and Dietetics and is on the House of Delegates.
Dr. Stoler hosted the second season of TLC's groundbreaking series, Honey, We're Killing the Kids!, which took aim at the unhealthy lifestyles of families, across the country, in an effort to motivate them to make positive changes. She is the author of Living Skinny in Fat Genes™: The Healthy Way to Lose Weight and Feel Great (Pegasus) which was featured in USA Weekend among the top "must have" books in 2011. She has been a contributor for FoxNews.com and written several book chapters. Stoler authored the ACSM's Current Comment on Childhood Obesity.
Felicia has been on many national and local television and radio programs across the U.S. She is one of the most sought-after nutrition/fitness experts for TV, radio, newspapers and magazines. Felicia is passionate about helping people live healthier lives – and practices what she preaches. She maintains a private practice and provides consulting and public speaking. Felicia is the mother of two children and step mom of one – living in NJ. - Length (mins): 10
- Waiver Received: No
- Host: Melanie Cole, MS
Published in
Train Your Body
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