Nutrition Information

Fruits and Vegetables

by Pierre S. Aoukar, MD and Hratch L. Karamanoukian, MD
Posted: March 12

A recent study published in the Lancet by scientists from Cambridge University found that vitamin C intake can cut the risk of death from heart disease. The researchers studied about 20,000 subjects and found that those with the highest intake of vitamin C had the lowest death rates from heart disease. In addition, they found that just a 50 gram increase in fruits (or vegetables) cut the death rate by 20%, regardless of a person's age, blood pressure or whether they smoked. An (meta)analysis of the studies published on heart disease and fruit and vegetable intake since 1965 revealed that those who consumed the highest amounts of fruits and vegetables lowered their risk of heart disease by 12 to 19%. A Dutch review of the medical literature 1994, estimated risk reduction for coronary heart disease to be 20 to 40% the those who consumed the most fruits and vegetables. Another literature review of 29 studies found a protective role for fruits and vegetables in coronary artery disease. Whatever the actual risk reduction may be, the bottom line is fruits and vegetables are good for your heart. They are the best source of antioxidants, nutrients, vitamins, and fiber available in nature.

Reference:
Fruits and Vegetables, Excerpt from the book: Everything Good For The Heart: The A to Z Guide, Aoukar PS and Karamanoukian HL. Magalhaes Scientific Press