The daily consumption of fruits and vegetables helps to significantly reduce cancers of the mouth, pharynx, larynx, lungs, pancreas, gallbladder, breast and uterus, said experts from the Institute of Nutrition and Food Technology (INTA), Chile. The concepts are contained in a paper presented at the sidelines of a conference that discussed "the importance of consumption of phytonutrients in fruits and vegetables: their key role in health", organized by INTA, institute attached to the University of Chile. According to participants at the meeting, it is possible to reduce by 31 percent the risk of cardiovascular disease from the consumption of vegetables. Those responsible for these health benefits are called phytochemicals, compounds found in various plants that form a defense

system that protects plant cells from damage that leads to constant exposure to oxidizing agents. As explained by Dr. Hernan Speisky associate professor at INTA in the case of humans are present as phytochemicals, bioactive compounds, "able to modify biological systems, so it is favorable to the health of people." "Increased consumption of fruits and vegetables in recent years follows the recognition that a higher intake of these foods brings a significant reduction in the risk of development and death from those diseases that most affect the population, cardiovascular diseases and cancers, "said the specialist. According to the latest study on the eating habits of Chileans, made last April by GfK Collect consultant in this country the consumption of fruits and vegetables is well below what is recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) are five servings of these foods daily. The director of INTA, Fernando Vio, said that the daily consumption of fruits and vegetables, "helps create a feeling of fullness and reduce total calorie intake, which also helps with weight control.