As the holiday season approaches, many people begin to think more about their diet and weight while enjoying festive meals. During a recent appearance on KLMJ’s Mid Day program, ISU Extension Health and Human Sciences Educator Amy Jones said maintaining healthy habits does not mean avoiding favorite holiday foods, but making balanced choices year-round.
“We know that a healthy diet includes fruits and vegetables. But which kind should we buy? Fresh, canned, or frozen? Well, all of those are healthy choices.”
Jones says a healthy diet includes about two and a half cups of vegetables and two cups of fruit each day, and consumers have flexibility when it comes to how they purchase produce. Jones says all three options provide nutritional benefits.
Fresh produce contains no added sugar or salt but can lose nutrients over time and may be more expensive when out of season. Canned produce is budget-friendly and long-lasting but may contain added sugar or sodium. Jones adds that frozen fruits and vegetables preserve nutrients and are suitable for a healthy diet.
“They are convenient and long lasting and often pre-chopped. A benefit of frozen is that you can take what you want out of the bag, reseal it, and put it back into the freezer. Sometimes though, frozen fruits and vegetables, their texture may change when cooked and some may include added sauces or seasonings.”
Jones says the key is choosing options that fit individual lifestyles and budgets.
Full interview below
