Older people who eat fruit and vegetables every day are less likely to be admitted to hospital than those who do not, scientists have found.

Their time on a ward was also shorter and they were more likely to see their GP more often so illnesses are detected earlier.

And data shows their apparent healthier lifestyles save the NHS billions of pounds.

The study recommended the health service promoting the benefits of eating more fruit and vegetable for those aged over 50.

It added the Government should subsidise nutritious foods so they are more affordable and accessible, with advice being given to ensure dietary assessments become routine.

Currently the NHS recommends people eat five portions a day to lower the risk of serious health problems, such as heart disease, stroke and some cancers.

The new research, led by Brunel University, noted with a growing ageing population, a balanced diet is vital for promoting overall well-being in older adults.

A specific concern was the increased risk of malnutrition due to a potential decline in both the quality and quantity of their diet.

The study involved more than 45,000 over-50s in 26 European countries with an average age of 71. It compared their daily consumption of fruit or veg, and how often they were hospitalised or saw a doctor.

It found those who regularly ate fruit and vegetables reduced their hospitalisation risk, recording fewer admissions and shorter stays, and were more likely to engage with GPs and specialists more often.

They may also have other healthy behaviours such as regular exercise and adherence to medical advice.

Dr Asieh Hosseini Tabaghdehi, an economist from Brunel Business School, said: "Our findings reinforce the potential protective effects a healthy diet offers, and promoting fruit and vegetable-rich diets could significantly ease the burden on healthcare systems.

"Research in America has estimated an incentive programme offering 30% off the cost of fruit and vegetables over a lifetime would increase consumption by 0.4 servings a day while preventing approximately 1.93 million cardiovascular diseases, and saving £31.4billion in healthcare costs."

DEPARTMENT OF HEALTH QUOTE TO COME...