These berries contain high levels of powerful bioactive compounds called anthocyanins, which are a sub-group of dietary flavonoids.
The research shows that these anthocyanins may help dilate arteries, counter the build-up of plaque and provide other cardiovascular benefits.
During the study, 405 heart attacks occurred. Women who ate the most blueberries and strawberries had a 32% reduction in their risk of having a heart attack compared to women who ate the berries once a month or less-even in women who otherwise ate a diet rich in other fruits and vegetables.
The study was lead by Prof Aedín Cassidy – head of the Department of Nutrition at UEA. She said: “We have shown that even at an early age, eating more of these fruits may reduce risk of a heart attack later in life. This is the first study to look at the impact of diet in younger and middle-aged women.
“Blueberries and strawberries contain high levels of compounds that have cardiovascular benefits, and our study shows that women who ate at least three servings per week had fewer heart attacks. The findings were independent of other risk factors, such as age, high blood pressure, family history of heart attack, body mass, exercise, smoking, caffeine or alcohol intake.”
Source: UEA
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