That’s the conclusion of a new report based on evidence gathered from 27,000 people around the world.
Studies carried out in Canada, Finland, China and Argentina have shown that five or more portions of fruit or uncooked veg may help to counteract the effects of a gene that predisposes people to heart disease.
A fifth of people of European ancestry apparently have the gene, but could significantly lower their chances of suffering a heart attack by changing their diet.
“Our results support the public health recommendations to consume more than five servings of fruit or vegetables as a way to promote good health,” said researcher Sonia Anand of McMaster University, Hamilton, Canada.