Do you struggle to meet the daily recommendations for fruit and vegetable consumption? If you answered yes, count yourself among the millions of Americans who are consuming less than the recommended intake of fruits and vegetables.

The latest information from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention shows that fewer than 25 percent of Americans get the recommended daily intake of fruits and vegetables and in Missouri that number is just over 11 percent of adults and only 8 percent of adolescents.

There is good news, produce is at its peak during the summer and local markets can make trying it more enticing. 

If you’d like to work on boosting your intake do three things.

• Develop a plan to boost your intake
• Visit http://www.fruitsandveggiesmatter.gov/benefits/index.html to learn how many servings of fruits and vegetables you need each day
• Head to the store or a local market to try one new option this week

Including produce in your eating plan is important to your overall health since fruits and vegetables are rich sources of fiber, folate, potassium and vitamins A and C. In addition, fruits and vegetables contain water which can help you stay hydrated. It’s okay to boost your intake gradually as long as you have a plan to reach the recommended amount over time.

Enjoy!