A nutritionist, Mr Yusuf Moses, has emphasised the need for high consumption of fruits and vegetables because of their inherent antioxidant content.

Moses told newsmen in Jos that fruits and vegetables protect humans against chronic diseases, such as cancer and anaemia, because of their rich content in antioxidants, vitamins and other essential nutrients required by the body.

According to him, antioxidants help to fight and counter the harmful effects of unstable molecules in human bodies called ‘free radicals’, which can cause various types of cancers.

Moses said that research had shown that due to the high level of antioxidants in apples, eating one a day would reduce the risk of breast, lung and prostate cancer.

“Apples have also been confirmed to improve memory and learning; it also has an anti-ageing antioxidant and slows down ageing.

“Fruits such as oranges, asides being rich in Vitamin C, have folic acid and fibre.

“Folic acid helps in blood production, while fibre cleans the intestines and aids it to function properly,” he said.

Moses also advised people to consume more watermelon as it hydrates the body and is rich in iron that strengthens and protects all the organs in the body.

“Watermelon is also essential for menstruating, pregnant and lactating women who lack iron which in turn results in anaemia,” he said.

He also suggested increased consumption of carrots as it is very rich in Vitamin A and beta-carotene, which is useful in improving the accuracy of vision.

“Carrots also prevent eye-related diseases such as cataracts and also help the heart to function properly and strengthens the immune system,” he said.

The nutritionist said that vegetables such as spinach, cabbage, cucumber, pumpkin leaves commonly known as ugu, pepper and tomatoes are high in antioxidants, as well as iron, and should be consumed regularly.

According to him, tomatoes are rich in lycopune, which is an anti-cancer agent.