Public Health Agency emphasises benefits of five-a day

The Public Health Agency has today emphasised the many health benefits to be gained by eating five portions of fruit and vegetables a day.

The reminder comes in response to the findings of the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer and Nutrition which found that 2.5% of cancers could be averted by increasing intake of fruit of vegetables.

Dr Carolyn Harper, Director of Public Health at the Public Health Agency, said:

“Although the figures appear modest – the impact is still a reduction of 7,000 cases of cancer per year in the UK (100 in NI 1).

Eating five portions of fruit and vegetables as part of a balanced diet can also help people maintain a healthy weight. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of cancer and heart disease2. Fruit and vegetables also contain important nutrients that the body needs and are an easy, tasty way to get those nutrients.

If you want to feel and stay healthy then follow the Public Health Agency’s six key steps – don’t smoke; maintain a normal weight for your height; drink alcohol in moderation; eat a balanced diet; be active; and stay safe in the sun.”