The Durham Region Health Department is launching a campaign this fall entitled, 'Vegetables and Fruit. Real Food. Real Fast. Real Good' to remind Clarington residents that eating vegetables and fruit is healthy, convenient and delicious.

Research shows that eating vegetables and fruit can decrease an individual’s risk for obesity, diabetes, heart disease, some cancers, high blood pressure and stroke, and may help people achieve and maintain a healthy weight.

According to a 2009 Health Department survey, only 37 per cent of Durham Region residents consume vegetables and fruit more than five times daily. “Lack of time to prepare and cost are the most frequently cited barriers to people eating the required servings of vegetables and fruit,” saysAdrienne Baltadjian, a public health nutritionist with the Health Department. “We’re trying to get people to think differently about vegetables and fruit and to view them as easy to grab and eat on-the-go, like nature’s fast food.

“There are lots of vegetables and fruit available that only need minimal preparation, with many requiring only a good washing. A little planning ahead can also save you lots of time in the long run.”

Ms. Baltadjian also suggested “to help keep costs low, look for varieties that are local or in season, or choose items that are frozen or canned. These are just as nutritious, but can often be more economical.”

Canada’s Food Guide recommends seven to 10 servings of vegetables and fruit daily, depending on one’s age and whether male or female. Children need four to eight servings of vegetables and fruit daily, also depending on their age and gender. It is also recommended to include at least one dark green and one orange vegetable each day. People should choose vegetables and fruit prepared with little or no added fat, sugar or salt, and eat vegetables and fruit more often than juice.