The month of June is the peak season for many fruits and vegetables and so it is a perfect time to celebrate National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month.

According to National Day Calendar, National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month has taken place since 1991. It serves as a way to promote growers and the grilling season.

The CDC explains that it is important to make sure you safely handle and prepare your fruit and vegetables.

There are many reasons that eating fruit and vegetables can help improve or maintain health, but according to OrlandoHealth.com, these are the 10 reasons on why we as people should eat more fruits and vegetables:

1. Fruits and vegetables are a great source of vitamins and minerals
2. You get an enjoy a variety of flavors and textures
3. They have lots and lots of fiber
4. They´re low-calorie and low-fat.
5. They protect against cancer and other diseases
6. Fruits and vegetables help you maintain good health
7. Fruit and vegetables are low in sodium and cholesterol
8. Fresh, frozen, canned, or dried, they´re ALL nutritious
9. They are convenient, quick and easy
10. Finally…Smoothies!

If that information does not get you running for the next fruit or vegetable dish, you might want to consider some of these hints from Cancer.org:

• At each meal, fill at least half your plate with fruits and vegetables
• Layer lettuce, tomatoes, beans, onions, and other vegetables on sandwiches and wraps.
• Add tomato sauce and extra vegetables to pastas and vegetable soups.
• Choose a vegetarian dish when eating out.
• Challenge yourself to try new vegetables from the produce aisle, frozen foods section, or your local farmers market.

National Fresh Fruit and Vegetables Month is a great time to start eating in more healthful ways, but you might want to indulge. At the end of this month, many of the treats available this month won’t be seen again until this time again next year.