Fruits vs. Vegetables

Dear Dr. Cory:

Which is healthier—fruits or vegetables?

Andrea, 8
Washington

Dear Andrea:

It’s a tie—well, almost! Fruits and vegetables together take up half of the new USDA MyPlate. But veggies get a little more space on the plate than the fruits. What’s important is that we eat a variety of fruits and vegetables. Different ones have different amounts of vitamins, minerals, fiber, and other nutrients. Most fruits and vegetables are naturally low in fat and calories. None have cholesterol. Eating a variety of fruits and vegetables will give your body just what it needs to grow healthy and help prevent such diseases as cancer, heart disease, obesity, and type 2 diabetes.

The Portion Plate reinforces the new USDA MyPlate. Check it out at theportionplate.com