Obesity is a high risk factor for serious health problems, including high blood pressurehigh blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and stroke. In the United States, obesity is responsible for more than 100,000 deaths every year.

The study, which followed women for two months, was undertaken by in the Department of Physiology and Nutrition. The women enrolled in the project were between 26 and 28 years of age and categorized as obese.

The participants were assigned to one of two low-calorie diets. One group received 5 percent of their total calories from fruit while the second obtained 15 percent from fruit.

Both groups of women lost essentially the same amount of weight - an average of 15 pounds (7 kilograms). However, the women who consumed more fruit appeared to have fewer blood markers for free radicals.

Free radicals are highly reactive molecules that can damage cellular structure, such as DNA. They may be produced by exposure to toxins, environmental pollutants and harmful chemicals and are associated with many illnesses. Antioxidants can help counteract the effects of free radicals in the body.

Researchers believe antioxidants in fruit, such as vitamin C and E, are responsible for the lower amount of free radicals found in the women. They also suggest the high fiber content in fruit may contribute to reduced cholesterol and thus, a lower risk of heart-related problems.

The authors suggest that fruit should be considered an important element of a low-calorie diet. In addition to lowering weight, it may also help protect individuals from cardiovascular illnesses associated with obesity. The study was published in an article in the journal Nutrition.

Copyright 2007 iVillage Total Health.