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Nutrition for a healthy heart: New study shows Juice Plus+ supports heart and lung health

Sara Lovelady Jun 07, 2013

As already suggested in previous research, Juice Plus+ provides nutrition for a healthy heart! A study just published in the Journal of the American College of Nutrition confirms that Juice Plus+ positively impacts several key indicators of cardiovascular wellness. In addition, it supports healthy lung function and improves folate status.

This scientific paper culled data from the 75 most compliant participants from a previous study conducted by the researchers at the University of Milan. All of the study subjects were cigarette smokers who had smoked an average of 20 or more cigarettes per day for at least ten years but did not have any existing respiratory complications. Because it creates a lot of free radicals, cigarette smoking increases oxidative stress in the body, putting a strain on the heart and lungs. The researchers wanted to see if Juice Plus+ would have a protective effect.

The study subjects were split randomly into three groups. The first group took Juice Plus+ Fruit and Vegetable Blends. The second group took Juice Plus+ Fruit, Vegetable and Berry Blends. The third group took placebos that were identical in appearance to the Juice Plus+ capsules. All of the participants underwent several tests at the beginning and end of the study to see what impact, if any, Juice Plus+ had on their health.

To assess the subjects’ cardiovascular well-being, the researchers measured blood levels of two substances — homocysteine and cysteine. (It’s important to keep both of these amino acids within a healthy range in order to protect cardiovascular health.) The participants’ lung function was also evaluated by measuring the flow and volume of air entering and exiting their lungs. Finally, because certain vitamins impact homocysteine levels, the researchers measured the subjects’ levels of folate and vitamin B12.

Juice Plus+ positively impacts key indicators of cardiovascular and lung wellness

After three months, levels of homocysteine and cysteine returned to normal levels in both groups taking Juice Plus+, showing that Juice Plus+ provides heart-healthy nutrition. In addition, both Juice Plus+ groups experienced improvements in several parameters of respiratory function, although the improvement was more marked in the group taking the Fruit, Vegetable and Berry Blends. Finally, subjects in each of the Juice Plus+ groups improved their levels of folate. The placebo group did not experience any such changes, ruling out any kind of placebo effect.

Researchers believe it’s the antioxidants in Juice Plus+ responsible for its cardiovascular effects

It’s well-established that heart-healthy nutrition includes eating plenty of fruits and vegetables. While fruits and veggies have multiple health-promoting constituents, key among them are antioxidants.

Unfortunately, the vast majority of Americans do not eat the recommended 7-13 servings of fruits and vegetables per day. As a result, they may have reduced antioxidant capacity. The researchers speculate that Juice Plus+, with its bevy of naturally occurring whole food antioxidants, may be a convenient way for people who have difficulty eating enough fruits and vegetables to help counter oxidative stress, such as from smoking.

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