One More Reason to Shop the Farmers' Market

April 1, 2014

With spring in full swing—well, at least in some parts of the country—farmers’ markets are also back in session. And new research from University College London just might have you rushing to a market ASAP. Why? According to a survey that studied the eating habits of over 65,000 people in England between 2001 and 2013, those who ate less than one serving of fruits and vegetables per day were 42 percent more likely to die than those who had seven or more daily servings.

 

While the news may seem shocking, and somewhat morbid, it’s reason to throw a peach or carrot sticks in your bag to munch on between rehearsals. Think of it this way: The more fruits and vegetables you eat, the healthier you are, so you’re less likely to die of any causes at any age. There’s one major caveat: Canned or frozen fruit soaked in sugary syrups seemed to have a reverse effect on health. This particular study even said eating just one portion daily increases risk of death by 17 percent.

 

But look on the bright side. When you eat just one to three servings of fresh fruits and veggies per day, you’re doing your body a whole lot of good. Your risk of death from cancer decreases by 11 percent and heart disease by nine percent. And when you have seven or more daily servings, be sure to do a happy dance since death risk from all causes combined is decreased by 42 percent, including a 25 percent decreased risk of cancer and 31 percent decreased risk of heart disease.