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Fruits and vegetables are valuable sources of enzymes, vitamins and minerals. They are easy to digest and have a cleansing effect on the digestive system and the blood stream. They are high in alkaline and water content and low in protein and fat content. Due to the organic acid present in fruits and the high level of sugar, they refresh and rejuvenate the body. Fruits are best eaten in their raw state because they tend to lose some of their nutrients when they are cooked.
Fruits may be consumed as a separate meal. They make for a healthy and easy to prepare breakfast dish, the effects of which last throughout the day. In case, fruits are required to be consumed with other food, they should form a larger portion of the meal. It is also advisable to consume one type of fruit at a time. Good health can be maintained by incorporating fresh fruits and vegetables in the daily diet. In times of sickness when one is unable to eat solid foods fruit and vegetables, juices may be recommended. During other times, however, drinking only juice is not enough to meet the recommended daily fruit and vegetable portions. One glass of vegetable or fruit juice constitutes as one portion of that vegetable or fruit. However, juice is not sufficient to make up for more than one portion in one day, no matter how much you may consume. This is on account of the fact that we cannot derive the same health benefits from juice as we can from whole vegetables and fruits. Juice is extracted from fruits and this leads to a reduction in the amount of fiber contained in it. A certain type of sugar is also released which can contribute to dental decay, if juice is consumed too frequently. This is the reason why fruit juice should be limited to mealtimes, especially in the case of children. It is advisable to consume water or milk between meals. A balanced and healthy diet must incorporate variety. Including different types of vegetables and fruits in the diet is better as you are providing your body with a variety of nutrients in just one meal. The meal also becomes enjoyable when there is a range of textures, colors and flavors. It is advisable to consume a minimum of five portions of vegetables and fruits daily. This may include fresh, dried, tinned of frozen varieties.
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