Fruits and the prevention of lifestyle-related diseases.

SUMMARY 1. Fruits contain a variety of compounds that may slow or prevent chronic diseases through a variety of possible mechanisms. Components in fruits thought to be associated with the reduction of these conditions include soluble and insoluble dietary fibre, anti-oxidant nutrients (vitamins C, E, selenium, beta-carotene) and phytonutrients (bioactive plant compounds that impart colour, flavour and other functional properties to foods). 2. The present paper briefly reviews selected studies on the role of some fruits in lifestyle conditions such as cardiovascular disease, some types of cancer and conditions that accompany ageing.