Western Health Launches Vegetables and Fruit Campaign
Western Health is launching the Vegetables and Fruit campaign in collaboration with other regional health authorities to increase awareness of ways to incorporate vegetables and fruit into meals and snacks. This campaign is targeting parents and caregivers of children between the ages of five and 13 in the Western region.
“Eating more vegetables and fruit may be the single most important dietary change parents and caregivers can make to help improve their family’s health while reducing the risk of major chronic diseases, such as heart disease, stroke, high blood pressure, diabetes and some types of cancers,†said Darla King, Regional Director of Community Health. “The Vegetables and Fruit campaign highlights fresh, frozen and canned vegetables and fruit as healthy options, and the importance of enjoying vegetables and fruit with every meal and snack.â€
According to data from the most recent Canadian Community Health Survey, 29.1 per cent of people in the Western region 12 years of age and older consumed vegetables and fruit at least five times per day, compared to the national average of 40.2 per cent. Â Although the majority of people recognize that vegetables and fruit are good for their health, some are unaware that frozen and canned vegetables and fruit without added fat, sugar or salt, have the same nutritional value as fresh vegetables and fruit, making them suitable healthy alternatives.
The campaign was launched today at Humber Elementary School with a group of grade three students, parents and caregivers. Over the next six months, Western Health will be promoting vegetables and fruit at schools, at community events and at some grocery shops throughout the region, as well as through its website and social media (#veggiesandfruit).
“Busy lifestyles, rising food prices and limited availability can all affect people’s ability to eat healthy,†said Stephane Buckle, Regional Nutritionist. “This campaign helps to remind parents and caregivers that frozen and canned vegetables and fruit provide nutritious, convenient, safe and affordable food year round.â€
The Vegetables and Fruit campaign focuses on parents and caregivers because they are often the primary grocery shoppers and meal preparers in the home and, have the greatest influence on family eating habits. As well, parents and caregivers are encouraged to enjoy vegetables and fruit, since children learn from watching adults.
For more information about this campaign, including tips and ideas, visit www.westernhealth.nl.ca/veggiesandfruit.
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Media Contact:
Tara J. Pye
Director of Communications (Acting)
Western Health
709-637-5252
tarajpye@westernhealth.nl.ca
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