The role of antioxidant
compounds in reducing the risk of many chronic diseases such
as cancer, coronary heart disease, and immune system decline has
been well documented. Several studies have demonstrated a relationship
between consumption of fruits and a lower incidence of
degenerative diseases such as heart disease, arthritis and ageing
(Blumberg, 2003; Kaur & Kapoor, 2001; Patras, Brunton, Da Pieve &
Butle, 2009).