Fruits, vegetables and other low-fat foods are the keys to a healthy heart according to studies recently published in the Annals of Internal Medicine. The first study, which included male and female healthcare workers, found that diets high in vitamin C-rich fruits and vegetables protected against coronary heart disease. Results indicated that an additional serving of fruits or vegetables a day could lower heart disease risk by 4%. Results indicate that grapefruit, oranges, kale, broccoli and spinach give the best protection.

Fruits and vegetables contain various heart healthy compounds, such as antioxidants, folic acid, potassium and fiber.

Researchers also found that increased fruit and vegetable consumption helped type 2 diabetics prevent heart attacks.

A second study published in the same issue of the Annals of Internal Medicine found that low-fat diets, full of fruits, vegetables, whole grains and nuts, generally improve blood flow and prevent artery damage in men with high cholesterol.