Slice Food Store

A glass (150ml) of unsweetened 100 per cent fruit, vegetable juice or smoothie also counts as one portion. However, no matter how much you drink (for example more than 150ml), or how many varieties of fruit juice, it will still only count as one of your portions per day because the juicing process removes most of the fibre from the fruit. Crushing fruit into juice releases the sugars contained in the fruit. So, to reduce the impact on teeth, enjoy a small glass at mealtimes.

Fruit and vegetables should be an important part of your daily diet. They are naturally good and contain vitamins and minerals that can help to keep you healthy. They can also help protect against some diseases. Most Australians will benefit from eating more fruit and vegetables as part of a well-balanced, regular diet and a healthy, active lifestyle. There are many varieties of fruit and vegetables available and many ways to prepare, cook and serve them. You should eat at least five serves of vegetables and two serves of fruit each day. Choose different colours and varieties. A serve of vegetables is about one cup of raw salad vegetables or 1/2 cup of cooked. A serve of fruit is about one medium piece, 2 small pieces of 1 cup canned (no added sugar).

Vegetables and fruit contain phytochemicals, or plant chemicals. These biologically active substances can help to protect you from some diseases. Scientific research shows that if you regularly eat lots of fruit and vegetables, you have a lower risk of: Type 2 diabetes Stroke Heart (cardiovascular) disease when fruits and vegetables are eaten as food, not taken as supplements Cancer some forms of cancer, later in life High blood pressure (hypertension).

Every 10 grams of fiber you eat is associated with a 10 percent reduced risk of colorectal cancer and a 5 percent fall in breast cancer risk, says a study published in the Annals of Oncology. In addition to the anti-cancer effects of fiber, the foods that contain it-like veggies and fruits-are also rich in antioxidants and phytochemicals that could further reduce your odds, notes Sheth. Read even more about your diet and cancer risk.