Our mothers were right all along!
A range of studies have discovered the best mix of fruit and vegetables to help extend your life is two fruits and three vegetables every single day, but hold the potatoes.
Yet, only about one in 10 adults eat enough fruits or vegetables, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The studies were representative of almost 2 million adults across the world and found the ‘5-a-day’ mix helped reduce the risk for numerous chronic health conditions including cardiovascular disease and cancer.
Those who consumed two fruits and three vegetables a day had a 13% lower risk of death from all causes and a 12% lower risk of death from cardiovascular disease, including heart disease and stroke.
However, starchy vegetables, such as peas and corn, fruit juices and potatoes were not associated with the positive results.
The biggest benefits came from green leafy vegetables, including spinach, lettuce and kale, and fruit and vegetables rich in beta carotene and vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, berries and carrots.
So, break out the fruit platter and raid the veggie patch and make sure you fill at least half your plate with fruit and veg!
