A research study in the Journal of the American Dietic Association found that fruit consumption was associated with decreased plaque build-up in the carotid arteries in the neck. In the prevention of adverse cardiovascular events such as heart attacks or stroke, the degree of cholesterol build-up on the arterial walls appears to be an important risk factor for subsequent cardiac events and mortality. The intake of fruit is thought to possibly decrease the risk of plaque accumulation in the arteries.
The study, from Guangdong Province in China, looked at the association between fruit consumption and cardiovascular risk factors. The key factors examined were c-reactive protein levels and carotid intimal media thickness. Diet was assess using a 3-day 24 hour recall interview.
The intake of fruit was found to be lower in type 2 diabetics (p
This study concluded that as fruit consumption increased, risk factors for adverse cardiac events decreased.
It makes sense that consumption of fruits (and vegetables) is healthy and nutritious. Part of the effect is the displacement of caloric consumption from other areas, such as fats and simple sugars. Fruit appears to be the best way to consume sugar.
Reference: Fruit consumption is associated with lower carotid intima-media thickness and C-reactive protein levels in patients with type 2 diabetes mellitus. Zhu Y, Zhang Y, Ling W, Feng D, Wei X, Yang C, Ma J. J Am Diet Assoc. 2011 Oct;111(10):1536-42.