Ideal amount of fruit and vegetable intake:
The ideal amount of fruits and vegetables required to reduce the risk of ischemic heart disease was studied. A Danish review of cohort studies by Ovesen LF examined the relationship between consumption of fruit and vegetables (including nuts) and the risk of ischemic heart disease (IHD). Eight published cohort studies were located which documented that the overall reduction in the risk of developing IHD was approximately 20%. It was determined that the risk reduction was associated with the quantity of fruits and vegetables consumed. The maximum benefit of eating fruits and vegetables toward reduction of ischemic heart disease was reached at a maximum intake of 800 grams of fruits and vegetables per day according to this review. This data has led to a public recommendation in Denmark to consume 600 grams and fruits and vegetables per day. (31)