HEALTH BENEFITS OF FOOD

Which foods are best for you?

Fruit and Veggies

Reduce risk for heart disease Heart attack and stroke

May help protect against certain types of cancers

Helps lower blood pressure Reduce risk of kidney stones Good low-calorie alternative as a snack

Nutrients in Fruit

Naturally low in sodium, fat, and calories None contain cholesterol

Great source of potassium, fiber, Vitamin C, and folic acid

Provide a healthier, natural sugar source

Nutrients in Vegetables

Naturally low in fat and calories None contain cholesterol

Great source of potassium, fiber, folic acid, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C

Beans and Peas

Split-peas, lentils, and kidney, pinto, black, lima, black-eyed, and garbanzo beans are mature legumes

Excellent source of protein Provide iron and zinc Considered part of the protein food group but

also a sub-section of the vegetable group Provide excellent source for fiber, folate, and

potassium Green peas, string beans, and lima beans are

not part of this group

Grains