Eating at least seven portions of fruit and vegetables a day can reduce your risk of dying at any point, according to new research.
Scientists looked at eating habits of thousands of different people. They found that eating seven or more portions reduced a person’s risk of death from heart disease and cancer by 31 and 25 per cent respectively. The study also found that eating vegetables had a more beneficial effect on health than fruit.
Victoria Taylor, Senior Dietitian at the British Heart Foundation, said:
“This is another reminder that that eating fruit and vegetables is good for our heart health and an important part of a balanced diet.
“Recommendations on fruit and vegetables vary from country to country and there is always debate about what the optimum amount should be. However, it shouldn’t be forgotten that on average, we are still struggling to meet our existing target of 5-a-day here in the UK.
“While you may not be getting your 5-a-day there’s no reason to give up and stop trying as this study showed there were health benefits for every extra portion of fruit and veg people ate.”
