5 a Day
The government recommends that we each eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day to help reduce the risk of some cancers, heart disease and many other chronic conditions.
The 5 a Day scheme is an initiate carried out by the NHS to increase awareness of the health benefits of fruit and vegetables. According to research, the average person in the UK eats less than 3 portions of fruit and vegetables a day, instead of the recommended 5. This is even lower amongst young people. The 5 a Day programme aims to change the way people think, and highlight the health benefits of eating more fruit and vegetables.
To get the best health benefits, your 5 a Day portions should include a combination of a variety of fruit and vegetable. That's 5 portions all together, not 5 portions of fruit and 5 portions of veg.
Here are 5 great reasons to eat 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a Day
- They are packed with vitamins and minerals
- They can help you maintain a healthy weight
- They are an excellent source of fibre and antioxidants
- They help reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke and some cancers
- They taste delicious and there is so much variety to choose from
Citrus and 5 a Day
Citrus fruit is a great way of getting one or more of your 5 a Day, an adult portion sizes is;
| Clementine | - | 2 small fruits |
| Grapefruit | - | half of one grapefruit |
| Mandarin | - | 1 medium fruit |
| Orange | - | 1 medium fruit |
| Satsuma | - | 2 small fruits |