Category: 5 a day

The World Health Organisation recommends eating at least 400g of fruit and vegetables every day, broken down into five 80g portions. Incorporating different beans and pulses is a fantastic way to add fibre and nutrients to your diet, but the rules for how they contribute to your daily total are specific and often misunderstood.

According to UK health guidelines, a standard portion of vegetables for the 5-a-day campaign is 80g. This is the key metric for determining the answer to the common query: Is half a red onion one of your 5 a day, or do you need more to meet your daily target?

According to a 2023 National Diet and Nutrition Survey, only 17% of UK adults meet their 5-a-day target, making it a challenge for many. Hummus is a popular and nutritious food, but can hummus be one of your 5 a day in a way that truly helps you reach your daily goal?

According to official guidelines from the NHS, all types of beans and pulses only contribute one portion towards your 5 A Day, no matter how many different varieties you eat in a single day. This rule applies to kidney beans, chickpeas, lentils, and more, which are considered excellent sources of fibre and protein but contain a different nutrient profile than other vegetables. This article clarifies how different beans count as 5 A Day and details the specific exceptions and why this guideline exists.

According to health bodies like the British Heart Foundation, olives generally do not count towards the '5 a day' target due to their high salt content. This surprises many, considering their reputation as a healthy Mediterranean staple. Are green olives one of 5 a day, and what does this mean for our nutritional intake?

According to a recent National Diet and Nutrition Survey, just 17% of UK adults and 9% of children aged 11–18 are hitting their 5 A Day target. While these statistics may seem low, many everyday foods, including hummus, can help you get closer to the goal.

According to a 2021 study, the consumption of fruit juice was not associated with the same longevity benefits as eating whole fruit and vegetables. This statistic highlights a crucial distinction in how different forms of fruit contribute to a healthy diet and the reasons why whole options are often preferred by experts.

According to the NHS, a portion of beans or pulses can count towards your '5 a day' target. This guidance includes cannellini beans, which are recognized for their high fiber and protein content. Understanding the specific rules for pulses is key to properly counting them in your daily fruit and vegetable intake.

According to official health guidelines, a single 80g portion of cooked beans or pulses can indeed contribute to your 5 A Day, but with a specific catch that limits how many portions you can count in one day. This guide will detail the precise rules for counting beans, helping you integrate them effectively into a nutritious diet.

Almost all fresh, frozen, tinned, and dried fruits and vegetables contribute to your daily intake. So, does cabbage count towards 5-a-day? Yes, it does, making this often overlooked vegetable a simple and affordable way to boost your nutrient intake.