The study was conducted on more than 20,000
Americans, who included whites as well as African Americans aged 45 years or
older. It attempted to study the reason behind the regional and racial
differences in the incidence of stroke. The participants included in the study
answered questions regarding their diet and overall health. They were followed
up for a period of over 5 years at regular intervals, and any strokes that
occurred during this period were recorded.
The researchers found that those who ate traditional
Southern American diets that comprised of deep fried food like fried chicken
and French fries, processed foods like bacon and ham, and drinks like sweet
teas and sodas were at a higher risk of suffering from stroke. These foods
raise cholesterol levels, increase blood pressure and worsen diabetes, all of
which can increase the chances of stroke.
According to
the study, people who ate these foods six times a week were at a 41% higher
risk of suffering from stroke, compared to those who ate these foods just once
a month.
The risk was around 5 times higher in African Americans who consumed these foods
as compared to white Americans.
On the
other hand, the risk was 29% lower in those individuals who consumed a diet
rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fish.
This study may explain why stroke is so common in
African Americans living in the Southern states of America.
Thus, it is advisable to cut down on deep fried food, processed meats
and sugary drinks, and stick to a balanced diet of more fruits, vegetables and whole grains, preferably cooked at home, if you want to live a stroke-free life!
Source: Medindia
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