FEELING fruity today?

Apparently not, say recent reports.

The Fresh Produce Consortium has suggested that just 12 per cent of us are eating at least five portions of fruit and vegetables a day.

Fruit and veg is packed with antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that are vital for promoting good health.

So why aren’t we getting more into our diets?

“Though they may not like them all, a majority of people like some fruit and veg,” says nutrition expert, Amanda Ursell.

“The main reason we fail to eat 5-A-DAY is through habit.

“You might pick up a bag of crisps with your sandwich each day or have pasta with garlic bread instead of a salad for dinner.

“Do this every day and you could be missing key fruit and veg at meal times.

“The key is making the change.

“Once you get used to these changes, you’ll really miss fruit and veg when don’t have it.”

Amanda's top tips

Getting more fruit and veg into your diet isn’t rocket science.

Check out Amanda’s top tips for easy ways to get your five a day.

Add to your brekkie

“Instead of toast and butter, scrambled eggs, or cornflakes, add fruit and vegetables to all of your breakfast dishes,” says Amanda.

“Sprinkle raisins into porridge, have blueberries with muesli or try adding peppers, onions and tomatoes to an omelette in the morning.”

Bean good? ... count as one of your 5-a-day

Change your snacking habits

‘Snack’ foods are traditionally biscuits, crisps or chocolate bars – full of fat, salt or sugar,” highlights Amanda.

“Swapping your usual snacks for dried fruit, crudités with hummus or fruit salad is a simple way to get your recommended daily amounts.”

Cook fresh sauces

“Though many ready made pasta sauces contain vegetables, they also often have added salt and sugar,” says Amanda.

“Making your own sauces from fresh will ensure you know exactly what you are eating, and can add as many of your five a day as possible.

“Vegetables like celery, carrot, onion, peppers, mushrooms and leeks taste great in pasta sauces alongside tomatoes.”

Beans means healthy

“Baked beans are filling and healthy, and they count for one of your five a day,” says Amanda.

“Have them with a grilled brekkie, on wholemeal toast for lunch, or on top of a sweet potato for dinner for low GI meals that will really keep you full.”

Soup it up

“Soups are a quick and easy way to get vegetables into your diet, whether you eat them from the tin or make them fresh,” says Amanda.

“Some cans of soup have a portion of vegetables. Make your own and you can add even more.”