A study in mice has revealed that a healthy dose of vegetables may help keep the arteries of the heart clear. Researchers proved that mice that had sufficient portions of broccoli, carrots, beans and corn had less artery-plaque than those on a veggie-free diet.

The study's lead author, Dr. Michael R. Adams of Wake Forest University School of Medicine in Winston-Salem, North Carolina said that most Americans do not follow the advice of eating vegetables other than French fries.

Reuters reports that the study confirms the belief that eating vegetables delays arteriosclerosis or thickening of the arteries that can eventually end up as heart disease or stroke.

This current study published in the Journal of Nutrition appears to be the first of its kind stating the veggies interfere with arteriosclerosis. However, it does not find that consumption of vegetables reduce heart attacks.

Research shows that chronic inflammation which contributes to arteriosclerosis is thwarted by plant chemicals called polyphenols. Polyphenols have anti-inflammatory as well as anti-oxidant properties. ]

Anti-oxidants are responsible for getting rid of free radicals, which destroy human cells.

Although the study focused on beans, broccoli, carrots and corn, which are common vegetables in the U.S., other vegetables may also have similar effects, according to the study.

The research was funded by General Mills Co., which produces canned and frozen vegetables.