The observational study conducted by the Tisch Cancer Institute at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York had a very large sample size, 500,000 people in 10 European countries, and it did make adjustments for other factors likely to influence the results, such as smoking, alcohol intake, obesity, consumption of meat and processed meat, exercise and whether women had taken the contraceptive pill or hormone replacement therapy, but we're a little concerned that large sweeping statements are being made by an oversimplified observational study.
Despite the fact we eat our fruits and veggies, unless we're eating organic we may be eating more than just food, we're probably eating cancer causing pesticides. And of course years and years of eating this way can take it's toll.
While the oversimplified research methodology concerns us, it's actually the impact of the study that has us even more worried. Because the sensational aspect of the report, many news agencies are failing to tell, or in some cases burying, one of the most important parts of the research.
The accompanying editorial by Walter Willett of the Harvard School of Public Health said efforts to increase fruit and vegetable consumption were still worthwhile because accumulating evidence showed that they helped protect against cardiovascular disease and "a small benefit for cancer remains possible". He suggests research now should focus more sharply on specific fruits and vegetables – including lycopene in tomatoes which, studies suggest, helps protect against prostate cancer – and on reducing smoking and obesity. And of course, we're still wondering if eating organic has an affect as well.
So the Sprouts say, "Ignore these stories and eat even more fruits and veggies!" We truly believe the more fruits and vegetables you eat the healthier you are overall; your stronger and more capable of fighting off disease, any disease that might come your way.
Here's to living your best possible life!
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