Fruits vs. Vitamins
- fruits and vegetables reduce the risk of atherosclerosis

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"'Studies of human eating habits] indicate a relationship between an increased intake of fruits and vegetables and a reduced risk of atherosclerosis. This study aimed at comparing effects of fruits and vegetables with the vitamins and minerals contained in them on antioxidant 'protective] status and risk markers. 43 subjects were randomized to three groups 'one of which then] consumed a basic diet free from vegetables for 24 days and another group consuming either 600 grams 'about 2 1/4 cups] of fruits and vegetables or a vitamin supplement. A third set took a placebo 'essentially empty pill.]...

"In conclusion, '2 1/4 cups] of fruits and vegetables resulted in a larger decrease in ...cholesterol concentration and an increase in...glutathione reductase 'natural detoxifying agent] activity compared with a vitamin and mineral supplement or placebo."

Source of "Fruits vs. Vitamins - fruits and vegetables reduce the risk of atherosclerosis"

By Dragsted, Loft, Nielsen, & Sandstrom, Res. Dept. of Human Nutrition, The Royal Veterinary and Agri. U., Frederiksberg, Denmark, The Inst. of Food Safety and Toxicology, Danish Veterinary and Food Admin., Copenhagen, and Inst. of Public Health, U. of Copenhagen, Denmark. In FASEB Annual Meeting, 2001.