ArcaMax

Only about 12% of American adults meet the suggested fruit intake, and 10% meet the recommended vegetable goals. And around 70% of Americans are obese or overweight. Add to that the fact that most American adults spend 90% or more of their time indoors or in a car. Clearly, it's time to find a new way to help folks upgrade their nutrition -- and their overall health and happiness.

So, here's a clever idea: Spend time in nature. That's the conclusion of researchers from Drexel University. They asked 300 adults about their diets and their relationship to nature: Was it indirect (seeing it, say out a window, but not being in it), incidental (having nature around you, like from houseplants) or intentional (going into a park or green spaces).

What they found was that folks who spent incidental or intentional time with nature eat significantly more fruits and vegetables than nature-deprived folks. They also feel less anxious and depressed. Plus, they say that being near nature makes them want to be healthier (being outside is more enjoyable when you can move around comfortably), so they consciously upgrade their nutrition. Bonus: That helps maintain a healthy weight, avoid chronic diseases and improves mood.

If you're struggling with nutritional deficits, chronic conditions, or mood issues, spending 30 minutes four times a week interacting with nature provides mental and physical benefits, but even 5-minute dips into nature can help, according to the American Psychological Association.

Health pioneer Michael Roizen, M.D., is chief wellness officer emeritus at the Cleveland Clinic and author of four No. 1 New York Times bestsellers. Check out his latest, "The Great Age Reboot: Cracking the Longevity Code for a Younger Tomorrow," and find out more at www.4YOUngevity.com. Email your health and wellness questions to Dr. Mike at questions@4YOUngevity.com.

(c)2026 Michael Roizen, M.D.

Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.

(c) 2026 Michael Roizen, M.D. Distributed by King Features Syndicate, Inc.