Consuming five daily portions of fruits, veggies lowers death risk

Washington: A new study has revealed that having five daily portions of fruits and vegetables lower the risk of death, however having more than five has no effect at all.

The study, which contradicts a previous study suggesting that seven or more daily portions of fruits and vegetables were linked to lowest risk of death, found that average risk of death from all causes was reduced by 5 percent for each additional daily serving of fruit and vegetables, while risk of cardiovascular death was reduced by 4 percent for each additional daily serving of fruit and vegetables.

The researchers suggest that, as well as advice to eat adequate amounts of fruit and vegetables, the adverse effects of obesity, physical inactivity, smoking and high alcohol intake on cancer risk should be further emphasized.

The researchers said that their study provides further evidence that a higher consumption of fruits and vegetables is associated with a lower risk of mortality from all causes, particularly from cardiovascular diseases.

The results support current recommendations to increase consumption of fruits and vegetables to promote health and longevity.