Abstract
Our study aimed to increase consumption of fruits and vegetables (F/V) in a group of healthy adults and to measure skin carotenoid levels. Thirty-three medical students were asked to increase their F/V intake to 4 to 6 cups per day during an 8-week intervention period. Students were given a list of F/V high in antioxidants and a $50 gift card every 2 weeks to purchase the food items. Fruits and vegetables intake and skin carotenoid levels were measured using resonance Raman spectroscopy. All students were successful in increasing F/V intake and skin carotenoid levels. However, students with lower baseline skin carotenoid levels may not be so effective in maintaining higher levels.