A popular question I see a lot, usually from folks new to exercise and eating healthy, is "how many fruits and vegetables should I be having per day?" The short answer is however many you darn well feel like eating! The long answer is a bit more complicated than that though - let's explore.

Fruits and vegetables are an important part of a healthy diet. They're packed with vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and fibre that can help improve your overall health. Aiming for at least 5 servings of fruits and vegetables per day is a good goal for most people. However, the amount you need may vary depending on your age, activity level, and other factors.

How Much is a Serving?

A serving of fruit or vegetables is about one cup (or the equivalent of one medium-sized fruit). Some examples of one-cup servings include 1 medium apple, 1 large banana, 1 small orange, 1 cup of berries, 1 cup of cooked spinach, and 1/2 cup of peas. As you can see, there is a great deal of variation in what counts as one cup - so don't get too hung up on the specifics. Just aim to eat a variety of fruits and vegetables in roughly equal amounts throughout the day.

How Many Servings Should You Eat?

The current recommendations are for adults to aim for at least 5 servings of fruits and veggies per day. However, the amount you need may vary depending on your age, activity level, and other factors. For example, pregnant women or people who are trying to gain weight may need more than 5 servings per day. On the other hand, people who are trying to lose weight may need less than 5 servings depending on their calorie needs. Ultimately, it's important to listen to your body and eat the amount that makes you feel your best. 

So there you have it! Eat as many fruits and veggies as you darn well please - just make sure they're in roughly equal amounts throughout the day. If you're looking for more specific guidelines tailored to your individual needs, talk to a Registered Dietitian or Certified Nutritionist. And as always, happy eating!