Study Finds More is Better for Heart Health

A heartening new study for those concerned with cardiovascular health made news this week. The study from University of Oxford found that those who consumed eight or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day were 22% less likely to die from heart disease than those who consumed three or fewer servings.

The research all but turns the fruit and veggie mantra from mythical home remedy to scientifically proven health advice, especially when it comes to the heart. According to the report, on the strength of the study doctors reportedly feel, “it may erase and remaining doubts concerning fruits and veggies, and cardiovascular health.” 

Add a Serving, Reduce Your Risk

While the recommendation is for eight servings, researchers have shown that every serving of fruits and vegetables above three reduces the risk of dying of heart disease by 5%. It’s an encouraging aspect of the research for those who feel overwhelmed by the recommendation of eight servings a day. While eight may seem like a lot, the bottom line is: more is better. And, what some of us may not know is that three ounces of fruit is a serving, so eating a large apple, orange, banana, or 3/4 of a cup of blueberries means you’ve knocked two servings off your list, making eight a little more achievable.

As one report points out, even diet organizations like Weight Watchers don’t count the calories from fruits and veggies – they are essentially free caloric intake. In addition, eating more fruits and vegetables probably means you are not eating those things that are detrimental to your health. These foods take up lots of room in your stomach, and the effect on weight can contribute to heart health as well.

There’s simply no downside to adding more fruits and vegetables to your diet. It’s a win-win no matter how you slice it, dice it, sprinkle it or peel it.

Watch the video and read the article about the connection between heart health and fruits and vegetables.

Do it for your heart! We’ve got 31 ways to get fruits and veggies into your diet.