Weighing In On National Statistics
A Taxing Diet
52 Percent of U.S. adults say it’s easier to do their own taxes than it is to figure out how to eat healthy.
Source: International Food Information Council Foundation’s 2012 Food & Health online survey of 1,000 adults
This speaks true close to home as well. In Polk County, research shows that only 21.3 percent of adult residents eat five or more servings of fruit and vegetables per day. Healthy Tampa Bay reports,“It is essential to eat a fresh, healthy and balanced diet in order to maintain a healthy weight and prevent chronic disease. Numerous studies have shown a link between the amount and variety of fruits and vegetables consumed and rates of chronic diseases, especially cancer. According to the World Cancer Research Fund International, about 35 percent of all cancers can be prevented through increased fruit and vegetable consumption. The USDA currently recommends four and one-half cups (nine servings) of fruits and vegetables daily for a 2,000-calorie diet, with higher or lower amounts depending on the caloric level. Despite the benefits, many people still do not eat recommended levels of fruits and vegetables.”
Source: Polk County Community Dashboard statistics on adult fruit and vegetable consumption can be found at www.healthytampabay.com