Consumption of fruits and vegetables are mandatory for good health and vitality. They are thought to decrease one's risk for cancer, when taken in adequate amounts. Estimates vary, however, it is generally recognized that five servings a day is an absolute minimum. To "clear up" the confusion that exists concerning the definition of a "serving" please consider the following.

Green, leafy vegetables like spinach or lettuce would be considered a "serving" if they fill a standard cup (approximately the size of one's fist). On the other hand, it only requires a half-cup of fruit or chopped vegetables to be considered a "serving". Dried fruits are even more concentrated and require only a quarter of a cup. If you are getting your nourishment through juices then a six ounce glass of vegetable/fruit juice is all that is required to equal a "serving". Finally, a medium size piece of fruit, approximately the size of a baseball, would be considered a "serving".

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