Healthy Habits: Healthy Eating Hacks

Millions of Americans are making health and diet-related New Year's Resolutions. Many are trying to eat healthier, and may wonder if American families who eat canned veggies get more nutrients than those who don't.

 

According to the 2016 "Canned Vegetable Nutrients Study" -- a dietary analysis of 24,000 Americans conducted by Dr. Marjorie Freedman (of San Jose State University) in association with the CFA -- the answer is a resounding "yes."

 

Consider this:

- 94% of American adults are not eating enough fruits and vegetables

- Adults who eat canned produce eat 17% more vegetables and 19% more fruit than those who don't

- Adults who eat canned produce consume 7% more dietary fiber and 5% more potassium than those who don't

- Canned produce includes low-sodium options and non-GMO veggies like Del Monte Blue Lake Cut Green Beans

 

These nutritional benefits affect our kids, too:

- 9 in 10 kids don't eat enough vegetables and 6 in 10 kids don't eat enough fruit

- Kids who eat canned produce eat 22% more vegetables and 14% more fruit than those who don't

- Kids who eat canned produce consumed more protein, fiber, vitamin A, calcium, and potassium (but less fat)

 

Experts believe that canned food has this surprising effect not only because canned produce carries nearly identical nutrients to its fresh-cooked counterparts, but they are also a cheaper and easier way to get recommended daily servings of fruits and veggies -- which can lower risk of heart disease, stroke, and certain cancers.

 

To make nutritious New Year's Resolution goals more attainable than ever before, Del Monte has released a new series of "2016 Healthy Eating Hacks":

 

>>  1.  BRING THE FARMER'S MARKET TO YOUR PANTRY

It's always healthy to eat fresh fruits and veggies, but because Del Monte canned produce provides very similar nutrient benefits to fresh-cooked produce, canned fruits and veggies are a much healthier option than, say, take-out pizza when fresh options aren't available in your fridge.

 

>>  2.  SHIFT THE BALANCE

Pair less healthy foods with a side of vegetables and shift ratios on your plate so that the vegetables take up more room than the more indulgent food.

 

>>  3.  TRICK YOURSELF (OR YOUR KIDS)

To infuse your favorite comfort foods with more vegetables, find hidden ways to make them higher in nutrients and lower in calories -- such as this Del Monte recipe for Sneaky Mac and Cheese. 

 

Because Del Monte's fruits and vegetables often go from farm to can in 8 hours or less, they can lock in key nutrients and allow Americans to enjoy the benefits of their favorite produce, even when not in season.