Grow a Garden of Good Nutrition

Are you dreaming of juicy tomatoes, fresh zucchini, crisp green beans, and sweet watermelons? Plant a produce garden and your dreams can come true! You’ll enjoy lighter meals during warmer weather while adding those all-important daily servings of fruits and vegetables.*

Enjoy the Harvest

Plant foods such as those above are natural sources of fiber, antioxidant vitamins C and E, and beta-carotene, as well as minerals such as potassium. They’re also naturally cholesterol-free and low in fat, sodium, and calories. Try these ideas to add plants to your plate: Have 2/3 of your meal come from plant origin. Toss vegetables into salads, omelets, wraps, and summer soups. Try juicing your vegetables — that still counts! Serve a colorful fruit kabob for dessert. Slice and dice your veggies and store them in bags for quick snacks.

 

Ready? Plan Before You Plant

A nutritious garden is worth the effort and planning. Here are some tips to consider:

• Decide on the size of your garden and its location.
• Sketch your garden design on paper before you begin.
• Visit a local nursery for recommendations on what to plant.
• To remember what you planted, save the planting information on the seed packets.
• Understand your limitations when it comes to your time and abilities — you can always start small and add on later.

With a simple, well-organized plan and so many available varieties of vegetables and fruits, you’ll soon have a smorgasbord of nutrition right in your own backyard!

Resources

Consider these resources to help you stay on track with diabetes management:

• * See how many fruits and veggies are recommended in the American Diabetes Association® Food Guide Pyramid.
• Work with a registered dietitian to balance your specific meal requirements, especially if you are sensitive to the sugar content in fruits.
• Check out the new Diabetes Control for Life™ Program to incorporate fruits and veggies in your meal plan.

Important Notice:Information provided is for general background purposes and is not intended as a substitute for medical diagnosis or treatment by a trained professional. You should always consult your physician about any health care questions you may have, especially before trying a new medication, diet, fitness program, or approach to health care issues.

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