Fruits and Vegetables Reduce Inflammatory Indicators

Serum C-reactive protein (CRP) is a biomarker for chronic inflammation and a sensitive risk factor for cardiovascular disease. While CRP has been related to food intake in general, there has been no studies specifically relating it to flavonoid (phytonutrients found in fruits and vegetables) intake. Researchers at Michigan State University found that total flavoid intake, as well as individual flavonids such as anthocyanidin and isoflavones, were inversely associated with serum CRP concentration. In other words, indicators for inflammation were reduced with increased intake of fruits and vegetables.

Practical Tip:

Findings such as these add to the many reasons we are such strong proponents of including 5-9 servings of fruits and vegetables to your diet every day. More and more chronic diseases are being identified as associated with some type of inflammation so the Healthiest Way of Eating is an important method of reducing inflammation-mediated chronic diseases.

Chun OK, Chung SJ, Claycombe KJ, et al. Serum C-reactive protein concentrations are inversely associated with dietary flavonoid intake in U.S. adults. J Nutr. 2008 Apr;138(4):753-60.