March 24, 2007

FLINT-Michigan Surgeon General Dr. Kimberlydawn Wisdom visited the Flint Farmers' Market today to encourage seniors to consume more fruits and vegetables and promote state and local programs that increase access to Michigan-grown produce as part of a statewide launch of the Fruits & Veggies-More Matters campaign.

"A diet rich in fruits and vegetables can reduce a person's risk of developing chronic disease, including some cancers, and can help those with chronic disease to better manage their conditions," Wisdom said. "Reducing risk and helping seniors manage their chronic conditions at home can reduce the need for long- term care and thus reduce health care costs."

According to Michigan Behavioral Risk Factor Survey data, there is a critical need to increase fruit and vegetable consumption among Michigan's seniors. Among adults aged 65 and over in Genesee, Lapeer and Shiawassee counties, almost two-thirds consume less than five servings of fruits and vegetables per day.

Wisdom-joined by state and local elected officials-highlighted programs that are working to alleviate this problem by increasing access to fruits and vegetables. One such program is Senior Project FRESH, a USDA program that provides a minimum of ten, $2.00 coupons to eligible seniors to purchase non-processed Michigan-grown fruits and vegetables. Genesee County will participate again this year through the Valley Area Agency on Aging; however, Wisdom encouraged city and county officials to work together to identify additional support to expand the program and allow more seniors to participate.

Wisdom also called on all Michigan residents to select Michigan-grown produce and support the more than 150 farmers' markets around the state to not only improve their health but also support the local and state economy.

Dick Ramsdell, Manager of the Flint Farmers' Market added, "We are pleased to welcome the Surgeon General to the Farmers' Market today and partner with her to remind Flint residents that healthy, fresh, Michigan products are available just around the corner."

Also as part of the festivities today, guests learned how to prepare healthy meals and snacks and had the opportunity to enroll in public nutrition-assistance programs. 

Fruits & Veggies-More Matters was created to help Americans overcome common everyday barriers to eating fruits and vegetables. The national campaign replaces the 5 A Day awareness program and promotes all forms of fruits and vegetables, including fresh, frozen, canned, dried and 100% juice. For more information about the campaign, visit www.fruitsandveggiesmorematters.org.

The campaign aligns with Wisdom's Michigan Steps Up healthy lifestyle initiative that promotes healthy eating in addition to physical activity and avoidance of tobacco products and secondhand smoke. For more information about Michigan Steps Up, visit www.michiganstepsup.org.