Why are fruits and vegetables so important to your health?

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables reduces your risk for diabetes; cancers of the colon, stomach and mouth; kidney stones; high blood pressure; and coronary heart disease, according to the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). Vegetables are naturally low-fat, low-calorie and cholesterol-free. They are good sources of potassium, folate--or folic acid, dietary fiber and vitamins A, C and E.Potassium helps maintain healthy blood pressure. Fiber helps reduce cholesterol and could lower your risk for heart disease, as well as promote healthy bowel function.