Vegetables and Fruits: 15-a-day? Across the globe human populations are diverse. This variation continues in the way we function and in particular in regard to our nutritional needs. There are some populations that live optimally consuming mainly fruits and berries picked straight from the tree or bush. Some survive purely on meat. Usually due to availability as opposed to choice. This is what the body expects and demands, to be healthy. It is set up for it. The question is, what to do when we do have the choice and an abundance of it? Carbohydrates in our diet come in the form of vegetables, fruits, grains and as discussed previously, sugars. The amount of carbohydrates that we consume is an issue for us all. We are aware that vegetables and fruits are an excellent source of vitamins and minerals and we should eat five-a-day. However, we are all individuals and will have specific amounts and types of carbohydrates that we do well on. A further consideration is the quality of produce we are consuming. It has been suggested due to common farming and transport methods employed, we should be consuming more like 15 portions of vegetables a day. At Functional Trainer, all clients are encouraged to ensure they are eating food that is fresh and packed full of nutrients: * Eat locally * Eat organic * Eat in season * Eat raw veggies and fruit In addition, be in tune with your body. If you consume something and it makes you lethargic, decreases concentration levels or irritates your digestive system, then it's a safe bet that you shouldn't be eating it. Keep a look out for magazines and websites (whyorganic) that continually introduce super or seasonal foods. Benefits of consuming these vegetables and fruits will help you: * balance your body * increase/maintain energy levels * cure ailments * provide antioxidants and flavanoids to keep us healthy * improve emotional health A good start is to reflect on what you do now. Are there a few changes you could make? Find a good local grocers that sells local food. If you can, buy organic, even just occasionally. A great shop on Heaton Road, Newcastle with a wide range of organic, local and seasonal produce is HoneyTree. If you struggle for time and would find delivery helpful then check out www.riverswale. co.uk to find out when they deliver boxes in your area. Grains have been contentious issue and will be looked at in depth in two weeks. Should we eat them? Can we digest them efficiently? Will they cause weight gain or other ailments? How can we be successful with them? Contact Jack Walton on 07792761324, (0191) 240-1287 or jackwwalton@hotmail.com | 
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