Plants for happier, healthier lives

The Produce for Better Health Foundation BB #:157162 has a new direction with its “Have A Plant” movement, linking health and lifestyle to eating produce, but it still has a strong message on nutrition.

Earlier this summer PBH sponsored a research study that showed how fruits and vegetables also improve quality of life and life expectancy.

The lead author, Dr. Taylor Wallace, professor in the Department of Nutrition and Food Studies at George Mason University, said in a Aug. 21 webinar the industry needs to use this evidence to push for more influence in public policy.

He said produce has the strongest effects in preventing cardiovascular disease at about 800 grams a day, which works out to about five servings per day.

“Consumers want to hear about what to eat, not what not to eat,” he said.

I discussed the research with him last month on video.

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Cara Harbstreet, registered dietitian and owner of Street Smart Nutrition, said with September being National Fruits and Veggies Month, it’s another opportunity to remind consumers of the great variety of flavors in the produce department, and how they contribute to a healthier life.