Strengthening the immune system through fresh fruit and vegetable consumption

As the threat of influenza (particularly H1N1/swine flu) is all around, eating a diet rich in fruit and vegetables can boost the immune system, helping to prevent illness and infection. More than any other food, fruit and vegetables contain essential vitamins and minerals which are of vital importance for good health and can also help in the prevention of diseases. As fresh fruit and vegetables are among others a good source of vitamin C, the consumption of fresh produce should be stimulated, in particular those for parts of the population most at risk of contracting influenza.

Freshfel Europe, the European Association for the fresh fruit and vegetable sector, wants to reiterate at this particular time of the year that fresh fruit and vegetables are an essential ally in the prevention and combat against the spread of influenza. Although the intake of vitamin C by itself will not ward off flu or the common cold, it strengthens the body’s immune system, helping it to fight off diseases and viruses.

Vitamin C has many functions (see notably the work of Chemistry Nobel Prize laureate Linus Pauling). There have been many studies (some by the Harvard School of Public Health) that have shown that vitamin C is effective in reducing the severity of flu symptoms. Vitamin C boosts the production of white blood cells, antibodies and interferon, all of which are critical to fighting flu and other illnesses. Vitamin C is a proven anti-inflammatory, collagen-building nutrient, which helps to restore the respiratory system. A strong respiratory tract is the first defence against flu viruses, and vitamin C has the added benefit of increasing the effects of friendly phagocytes, which “eat” viral cells.



Against this background and the wide recognition of vitamin C role in reinforcing the immune system, Ramon Rey, President of Freshfel, stated: “Fruit and vegetables are the best natural sources of vitamin C. The wide assortment of fresh fruit and vegetables available should therefore be taken into consideration to contribute to a healthy diet rich in vitamin C. Fresh produce should be an additional useful tool in the set of preventive measures taken by Member States in the EU to combat H1N1 swine flu.” He added: “A wide range of fruit and vegetables have a high vitamin C content, particularly exotics such as guavas and papayas, berries, kiwifruits, cantaloupes, all citrus varieties as well as several vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli and sweet peppers. Health authorities should convey this basic message to the population alongside other preventive measures against flu.”

Fruit and vegetables can be taken in all their varieties and at different moments as a snack or during the various meals of the day. Philippe Binard, General Delegate of Freshfel, added: “It makes sense for consumers to get their vitamin C intake directly from fresh fruit and vegetables rather than from pills. They will indeed take benefit from the natural source of the vitamin added to the pleasure of tasting and enjoying the quality and diversity of fresh produce.” Ramon Rey, President of Freshfel, concluded: “Prevention is the best medicine. As we move into autumn and winter, we should be reminded of the many health related aspects of the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables so that everyone can benefit from eating immunity-boosting fresh produce.”


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