A study by Brunel University of London involving 45,000 participants aged 50+ from 26 European countries highlights a link between fresh produce intake and hospital admissions. The research shows that increased fruit and vegetable consumption correlates with fewer and shorter hospital stays, potentially reducing healthcare costs by billions.
Participants reported their frequency of fruit and vegetable consumption, with options ranging from daily to less than once a week. Findings indicate that regular consumption of fresh produce lowers hospitalization risk, with fewer admissions and shorter stays recorded.
Dr. Carolyn Lister, Principal Scientist & Science Team Leader, states, "This study serves as a wake-up call for all New Zealanders. We need to prioritize our health now to prevent larger challenges down the road." The study suggests that those consuming more fresh produce also tend to seek earlier GP intervention and engage in healthier behaviors like regular exercise.
Stats NZ projects an aging population, with over 1 million people expected to be over 65 by 2028, potentially doubling in 50 years. The study aligns with a 2019 American study that found increased fruit and vegetable intake could prevent 1.93 million cardiovascular events and save US$39.7 billion in healthcare costs.
The 5+ A Day Charitable Trust, through the Fruit in Schools program, promotes healthy eating among New Zealand's youth. However, only one in four Kiwis currently meet the recommended daily vegetable intake. The study emphasizes the need for increased fruit and vegetable consumption to alleviate health system pressures.
Source: 5aDay