Role of fruit juice in achieving the 5-a-day recommendation for fruit and vegetable intake

Abstract

Although there is strong evidence that consumption of fruit and vegetables is associated with a reduced rate of all-cause mortality, only a minority of the population consumes 5 servings a day, and campaigns to increase intake have had limited success. This review examines whether encouraging the consumption of fruit juice might offer a step toward the 5-a-day target. Reasons given for not consuming whole fruit involve practicalities, inconvenience, and the effort required. Psychologically, what is important is not only basic information about health, but how individuals interpret their ability to implement that information. It has been argued that fruit juice avoids the problems that commonly prevent fruit consumption and thus provides a practical means of increasing intake and benefitting health through an approach with which the population can readily engage. Those arguing against consuming fruit juice emphasize that it is a source of sugar lacking fiber, yet juice provides nutrients such as vitamin C, carotenoids, and polyphenols that offer health-related benefits. Actively encouraging the daily consumption of fruit juice in public health policy could help populations achieve the 5-a-day recommendation for fruit and vegetable intake.

Fruit and Vegetable Intake and Mental Health in Adults: A Systematic Review

“…This recommendation is also supported by a number of prominent experts, boards, and associations, such as the National Health Service (NHS) in Great Britain [97], American Heart Association (AHA) [98], Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) [99], and Office of Disease Prevention and Health Promotion (ODPHP) in the United States of America [100]. Moreover, not only the role of raw fruits and vegetables but also that of the processed fruits and vegetables, including frozen, canned, or cooked ones [101], as well as juices [102], is emphasized to meet the recommended intake.…”

Effects of a Fruit and Vegetable-Based Nutraceutical on Biomarkers of Inflammation and Oxidative Status in the Plasma of a Healthy Population: A Placebo-Controlled, Double-Blind, and Randomized Clinical Trial

“…Despite the fact that it has been demonstrated that the consumption of 800 g/day of fruit and vegetables reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease and mortality from all causes, and 600 g/day reduces the risk of cancer, the WHO and several dietary guidelines still recommend 400 g/day [5]. However, most of the population does not even reach the minimum established by health authorities, which is equivalent to five portions of fruits and vegetables a day [6,7]. The benefits related to a healthy lifestyle are known worldwide, with new products emerging that offer the possibility of incorporating the 2 of 14 aforementioned bioactive compounds through supplements/nutraceuticals, which helps to reach the nutritional recommendations [8].…”

Dietary Practices and Barriers to Adherence to Healthy Eating among King Faisal University Students

“…In addition, they ignore the nutritional value labeled on the food items. When they choose a meal in a restaurant, they prefer to eat delicious and diverse food, and snacks with high fat and calorie values [9,12].…”

“…High coffee consumption is associated with stroke, coronary heart disease, heart failure, liver cirrhosis, urinary tract infection, stomach upset, and more [8]. On the other hand, fruit juices are a rich source of vitamin C, carotenoids, and polyphenols, with health-promoting benefits [9].…”