Fruits and Vegetables Reduce Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Overweight Children

A healthy diet focused on fruits and vegetables reduces cardiovascular risk factors in overweight children, according to a study published in Clinical Pediatrics. Researchers compared three healthy eating patterns in 96 participants aged 9 to 18 with a high BMI for one year. Diets high in fruits, vegetables, legumes, and whole grains and limited in saturated fats and red and processed meats improved disease risk factors such as blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and weight. Further research on implementation of these dietary patterns among children at risk for heart disease is needed.