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Apple or pear for reducing the risk of cardiovascular disease: results from a meta-analysis

Fruit intake is associated with a decreased risk of cardiovascular disease (CVD). Apple and pears, due to their flavonoids, fiber and antioxidants content, may be also associated to a reduce CVD risk. Therefore the authors of this meta-analysis compiled observational and clinical trials assessing the effects or apples, pears or their products, on cardiometabolic risk factors and clinical outcomes.

Randomized and controlled trials (n = 7) showed only a reducing effect of apple consumption on BMI, whereas blood lipids, body weight, blood glucose and blood pressure were no effected. However, observational studies (n = 14) showed that apple or pear intake significantly decreased risk of cerebrovascular disease, cardiovascular death, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and all-cause mortality.

Therefore, even if the effects of apple and pear on cardiometabolic risk factors are not clear in clinical trials, observational studies substantiate their preventive effects on CVD.

Gayer BA, Avendano EE, Edelson E, Nirmala N, Johnson EJ, Raman G. Effects of Intake of Apples, Pears, or Their Products on Cardiometabolic Risk Factors and Clinical Outcomes: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. Curr Dev Nutr. 2019 Oct 3;3(10):nzz109.