Health boost for fruit juice

Juice made from 100 per cent fruit can have the same benefits as whole fruit and vegetables, research has suggested.

The study published in the International Journal of Food Science and Nutrition questions previously held wisdom about fruit juice.

It has traditionally been thought that juices were inferior to whole fruit and vegetables when it comes to combating certain types of cancer and cardiovascular disease.

But the paper Can pure fruit and vegetable juices protect against cancer and cardiovascular disease, too? – a review of the evidence’ suggests 100 per cent fruit juice can be equally effective.

“When considering cancer and coronary heart disease prevention, there is no evidence that pure fruit and vegetable juices are less beneficial than whole fruit and vegetables,” the study said.

The researchers found that the positive impact of fruit and vegetables comes not just from the fibre they contain, but also from antioxidants.

These antioxidants are present in juices, as well as whole fruit and vegetables.

Sue Taylor of the Juice Products Association said the study showed some the key health benefits offered by 100 per cent fruit juice.

“Although this independent review of the literature is not designed to focus on any particular 100 per cent juice, it does go a long way in demonstrating that fruit and vegetable juices do play an important role in reducing the risk of various diseases, especially cancer and cardiovascular heart disease,” she commented.

This research comes at a time when the government and health campaigners are urging people to eat at least five portions of fruit and vegetables every day.

Despite the high profile campaign, the UK is still facing an obesity epidemic.