have a plant

Fruits and Veggies Matter…

They are nutrition powerhouses. Not only are they low in fat and calories, but they are good sources of a variety of nutrients, such as vitamin C and folic acid that promote good health.

As part of a healthy diet, eating fruits and vegetables can:

  • Help maintain a healthy weight
  • Help prevent certain cancers
  • Help maintain a healthy blood pressure
  • Reduce heart disease risk
  • Reduce diabetes risk

With over 200 choices and a variety of packaging options to make fruits and vegetables easy to store and serve, there’s bound to be something to please everyone, even the pickiest of eaters. Fresh, frozen, canned, and dried—they all count.
Most people know the health benefits of eating more produce; yet, despite understanding why they should eat more, people continue to struggle with how to do it. The Have a Plant™ campaign inspires people to believe in the powerful role that fruits and vegetables can play in fueling happy, healthy, and active lifestyles.

The Missouri Department of Health and Senior Services encourages Missourians to eat more fruits and vegetables and to increase the availability of fruits and vegetables at home, school, work, and other places where food is served. For more information about Missouri’s Fruit and Vegetable Program or to join the network of Missouri fruit and vegetable colleagues please contact cindy.deblauw@health.mo.gov.

Eating more fruits and vegetables matters to all of us, is a great way to stay healthy, is a perfect fit for busy lives, and may even boost your mood. These colorful creations grew up out of the ground, and they’ve got tons of upside. So, by all means, #haveaplant.