Recent research shows that foods work together-a concept called food synergy- to promote health and protect against disease.

Scientists have isolated and identified thousands of unique phytonutrients from hundreds of different plant foods. In whole foods, these compounds interact with our cells, organs, and tissues in different ways, and when we combine these foods, we increase the health benefits. For example, when oranges, apples, grapes, and blueberries were tested both alone and together, the antioxidant activity was five times higher for the combined fruit salad than for the individual fruits.

Although certain food families have been found to be especially beneficial, the best way to achieve optimum health is through food synergy-enjoying a wide and colorful array of fruits and vegetables.

References

Liu, R. Potential Synergy of Phytochemicals in Cancer Prevention: Mechanism of Action. J Nutr. 134:3479S-3485S, December 2004. Heber, D., Bowerman, S. Applying Science to Changing Dietary Patterns1 Supplement: AICR`s 11th Annual Research Conference on Diet, Nutrition and Cancer. World Cancer Research Fund & American Institute for Cancer Research (1997) Food, nutrition, and the prevention of cancer: a global perspective 1997 American Institute for Cancer Research. Washington, DC. Liu, R. H. (2003) Health benefits of fruits and vegetables are from additive and synergistic combination of phytochemicals. Am. J. Clin. Nutr. 78:517S-520S