Studies representing nearly two million adults worldwide show that eating about five daily servings of fruits and vegetables, in which two are fruits and three are vegetables, is likely the optimal amount for a longer life, according to new research published in the American Heart Association’s flagship journal Circulation. Diets rich in fruits and vegetables help reduce risk for numerous chronic health conditions that are leading causes of death, including cardiovascular disease and cancer. Yet, only about one in 10 adults eat enough fruits or vegetables, according to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. Analysis of all studies, with a composite of more than two million participants, revealed:

• Intake of about five servings of fruits and vegetables daily was associated with the lowest risk of death. Eating more than five servings was not associated with additional benefit.

• Eating about two servings daily of fruits and three servings daily of vegetables was associated with the greatest longevity.

• Not all foods that one might consider to be fruits and vegetables offered the same benefits. For example: Starchy vegetables, such as peas and corn, fruit juices and potatoes were not associated with reduced risk of death from all causes or specific chronic diseases.

• On the other hand, green leafy vegetables, including spinach, lettuce and kale, and fruit and vegetables rich in beta carotene and vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, berries and carrots, showed benefits.