Healthy Eating
What is This Indicator?
Percent of people who eat 5 or more servings of vegetables/day.
(Vermont Department of Health)
The percentage of people who eat 5 or more servings of vegetables/day has declined slightly over the past decade, and remains low.
According to the Vermont Department of Health, most adults should eat at least 2 cups of fruit and 2-1/2 cups of vegetables a day. The department says fruits and vegetables are naturally high in fiber, and low in calories, adding volume to meals and allowing people to eat more and feel fuller with fewer calories.
As the pace of life increases for more Vermonters, many of us have less time to prepare meals. We often choose processed foods with more fat and calories, rather than fresh fruit and vegetables. This indicator shows 34% of Vermonters at a healthy weight Body Mass Index (BMI) eat 5 or more servings of fruit/vegetables per day, while smaller percentages of overweight and obese do so.
This is self-reported data, so additonal research is required to better establish the behavior and eating habits of both Vermont adults and children.
Why is it Important?
The Dietary Guidelines for Americans recommends eating a healthful diet consisting of at least five servings of a variety of fruits and vegetables daily because these foods help lower the risk of many chronic conditions and diseases. On the other hand, poor nutrition increases both the prevalence and the severity of many conditions (including obesity, high blood pressure, osteoporosis and arthritis) and illnesses (including cardiovascular disease, diabetes and certain cancers).
Healthy Eating and Age
Children's eating habits are influenced by a number of factors, including parents' behavior, income and accessibility to processed foods high in sugar and fats. Despite heightened awareness of the connnection between unhealthy eating and childhood obesity, many schools have vending machines and cafeteria offerings, such as soda, juice and cookies. Children's access to processed foods in convenience stores and fast food restaurants compounds the problem. Seniors also face challenges in eating healthy to prevent or control chronic health conditions. Many must watch sugar intake and be sure to eat foods with more fiber and calcium.
Healthy Eating and Income
While all Vermonters face the challenge of eating healthy meals, those with lower income have additional obstacles. Fresh fruit and vegetables can cost more than canned or frozen foods. That can force many families to choose foods that have increased fat and calories, and lack essential vitamins and minerals. The Vermont Department of Health data confirms lower income Vermonters eat less fresh food and have higher levels of obesity.
