Fruits and veggies are generally associated with health benefits, including weight loss. However, a new study may be casting some doubt on that premise. The study, published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, examined how increasing fruit and vegetable consumption affects weight loss. The purpose of the research was to see if increased consumption of these food groups aided weight loss when all other variables were held constant.

The researchers found, after combining findings from existing literature, that increased fruit and vegetable consumption had no discernible effect on weight loss. This means that, without making other alterations, this simple diet change is insufficient for shedding pounds. Instead, the article concludes that increased fruit and vegetable consumption must be paired with reduction of caloric intake from other sources. The bottom line is that it is not increased fruit and vegetable intake, but fruits and vegetables replacing other, less healthy foods.

According to Live Science, it is also important to note that consumption of extra fruits and vegetables on top of normal caloric intake also did not cause a weight gain. This means that the extra calories from produce sources did not have an adverse impact either. Knowing that is helpful for individuals that are increasing consumption not for weight-loss purposes, but to increase nutrients such as vitamins and fiber.

The Harvard School of Public Health advises that a diet rich in vegetables and fruits can lower blood pressure, reduce risk of heart disease and stroke, prevent some types of cancer, lower risk of eye and digestive problems, and have a positive effect upon blood sugar which can help keep appetite in check. Even if these foods are not helping drop dress sizes, they are definitely having a healthy impact.