Are high in vitamin C, which helps support the immune system. They contain manganese, folate and potassium.

Only about 12% of surveyed Americans meet their daily recommended fruit intake, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention found in 2019. That number is even lower among low-income adults. Eating fruits and vegetables is an important part of a healthy diet, but for many who live in areas of food insecurity access may be a challenge. The U.S. Department of Agriculture found 44.2 million Americans lived in food-insecure households in 2022. Meanwhile, an estimated 30%40% of the food supply in the U.S. goes to waste.

Any fruit is good for your diet

If you live in an area with access to fresh produce, any choice of fruit is a healthy one, whether your preference is apples, oranges, strawberries or grapefruit, registered dietitian Danielle Crumble Smith said. Each fruit has a unique nutritional profile and benefits.

Afternoon boost

grabbing one from a smoothie bar or a pre-packaged drink from the store. If you’re going for bottled juice, read the nutritional label thoroughly to check for added sugar content.

“All the concentrated fruit tends to be really high in sugar and (doesn’t) have any protein to help stabilize blood sugar levels,” she told USA TODAY in 2023.

How much fruit should you eat per day?

The daily recommended fruit serving depends on several factors, including age, height, sex, weight and physical activity.

Generally, the USDA says adults should consume around 2 cups of fruit per day.

Here are some examples of what counts as a “cup” of fruit: 1 small apple 1 large banana 10 dates 22 seedless grapes 2-3 kiwis 1 large peach 3 medium plums

1 slice of watermelon