In a randomized, single-blind and controlled trial, the effects of the 
administration of fruits and vegetables (mean 582 vs. 188 g/day) for 12 weeks 
were compared as adjuncts to a prudent diet in the management of 202 group A and 
204 group B patients with acute myocardial infarction (AMI). Fruits and 
vegetables decreased total serum cholesterol level (26.4 vs. 13.8 mg/dl, p less 
than 0.01) low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (20.0 vs. 9.8 mg/dl, p less than 
0.01), triglycerides (20.6 vs. 10.6 mg/dl, p less than 0.01) and fasting blood 
glucose (22.4 vs. 12.6 mg/dl, p less than 0.01) levels more significant in the 
intervention group than changes in the control group. Adherence to dietary 
advice was assessed by questionnaires. Total adherence score in group A was 
significantly higher than in group B. Group A patients also had a significantly 
smaller rise in lactate dehydrogenase cardiac enzyme which indicates that the 
protective effects of such a diet may be observed within 1 week. There was a 
significantly greater decrease in mean blood pressure in group A than changes in 
group B. These data suggest that fruits and vegetables, because of their high 
soluble dietary fibre and possibly high antioxidant contents, may be a useful 
and safe adjunct to a prudent diet in the treatment of patients with AMI. The 
use of fruits and vegetables may be preferred over oat bran, psyllium and guar 
gum because of their high content of vitamins and minerals.