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HEALTH INFORMATION

FRUIT
Current statistics contained in the National Diet and Nutrition Survey estimate that the average British adult consumes just 2.8 portions a day of fruit and vegatbles compared to an average of 4 in the US and an impressive 9 in Greece.

Numerous studies prove that the vitamins, potassium, folate, fibre and antioxidants found in fruit guard against heart disease, strokes and cancer. Eating at least 5 portions of fruit and vegetables a day could lead to estimated reductions of up to 20% in overall deaths from chronic diseases such as coronary heart disease, stroke and some cancers. It is therefore increasingly worrying that in the UK only 13% of men and 15% of women eat at least five servings of fruit and vegetables each day.

Read information from the Government's '5 A DAY' campaign >>

VITAMINS
Vitamin A, found in apricots, melons, carrots, red peppers and tomatoes, protects against cell damage, keeps skin healthy, is good for growth and strong bones, hair and teeth.

Vitamin B, found in bananas, peas and beans, is neccessary for energy production as well as keeping the brain, nerves, blood and muscles functioning and skin, hair and nails healthy.

Vitamin C, found in citrus fruits, kiwis and broccoli, helps the body to absorb iron and to heal wounds.

Vitamin E, found in avocados and vegetable oil, protects cell membranes from damage and is important in the formation of red blood cells.

OFFICES
A recent ILO report has placed the UK at the top of the list of wealthy nations who work excessive hours.

An American study, published in the Occupational and Environmental Medicine journal, makes a clear link between long working hours and an increased risk of hypertension, cardiovascular disease, fatigue, stress, depression, chronic infections and diabetes. The study concluded that for those working 12 hours a day, there was a 37% increase in risk of becoming ill compared to those working fewer hours.

Sources: The Times Online and The '5 A DAY' campaign