Increasing the amount of fruits and vegetables you eat is great way to improve your health, reduce your risk of many diseases and feel better each day. atom Alliance encourages you to try a new fruit or veggie, fill half of your plate with fruits and vegetables at every meal and try a new recipe using fresh produce during Fruits and Veggies – More Matters Month in September.

As autumn approaches, fruits and vegetables available in cooler weather are coming into season. Try a new one this fall, such as acorn squash – a nutty squash known for its acorn shape, pomegranate – a red fruit known for its sweet juice or Swiss chard – a leafy green known for its high nutrient value. If you’re not feeling adventurous, choose more familiar fall fruits and veggies such as sweet potatoes, apples and broccoli.

Try filling half of your plate with fruits and veggies at every meal. This keeps you from having to measure out servings. Choose a variety of produce and keep it colorful for the most benefits. Keep in mind that frozen, canned and dried fruits and veggies count too.

The Fruits and Veggies: More Matters website offers a collection of recipes to keep you from getting bored with fruits and vegetables. Try baking peaches with cinnamon or roasting Brussels sprouts with olive oil and thyme. atom Alliance encourages you to explore preparing fruits and veggies by making a dish you’ve never had before.

Eating more fruits and veggies can help you maintain a healthy weight, lower your cholesterol and prevent heart disease. atom Alliance works with healthcare providers to prevent heart attacks and strokes. Learn more here.