This week is Australia’s Healthy Weight Week and AUSVEG is getting behind the initiative which aims to raise awareness about the importance of achieving and maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle.

“Eating healthy and nutritious foods is vital to maintaining a healthy weight and lifestyle, and AUSVEG encourages all Australians to consume more fresh fruit and vegetables as part of a balanced diet,” said AUSVEG Communications Officer, Luke Raggatt.
AUSVEG is the National Peak Industry Body for Australia’s 9,000 vegetable and potato growers.
The national event, held from 22-29 January, will feature forums and events hosted by the Dieticians Association of Australia (DAA), which will provide valuable information on weight loss, healthy eating and the development of an active lifestyle.
Australia’s Healthy Weight Week will include a series of weight loss presentations, health quizzes, free sessions of Zumba and Pilates, and a number of healthy cooking demonstrations and tastings. The DAA will also run a 10 week weight loss challenge.
“Australia’s Healthy Weight Week is a great opportunity for all Australians to think about adopting healthier lifestyle practises. Eating more fresh fruit and vegetables can boost our energy levels, which may assist in maintaining an active lifestyle,” said Mr Raggatt.
Research in both Australia and overseas indicates that fresh fruit and vegetables are rich in antioxidants and contain essential vitamins and minerals, which are extremely beneficial both in the short and longer-term.
“Including more fresh fruit and vegetables in our diet can not only assist with weight loss, but may even reduce the chance of having a stroke or acquiring heart disease later in life,” said Mr Raggatt.
AUSVEG encourages Australians to eat the recommended daily intake of two serves of fruit and five serves of vegetables per day.
“Australian grown vegetables continue to be some of the freshest and most nutritious produce in the world and AUSVEG encourages all Australians to use Healthy Weight Week to think about the foods they are eating, while also supporting our local growers,” said Mr Raggatt.
For more information on Australia’s Healthy Weight Week, including a list of events being held across the country, visit the official website at http://www.healthyweightweek.com.au/. Persons who consider themselves overweight are encouraged to consult an Accredited Practising Dietician (APD) for further advice.

MEDIA CONTACT: Luke Raggatt – Communications Officer, AUSVEG
Phone: (03) 9822 0388, Mobile: 0403 827 822, Email: luke.raggatt@ausveg.com.au