Risk Of Stroke Can Be Lessened By Proper Diet

by Medindia Content Team on February 1, 2006 at 12:41 PM

A research study has revealed that as many as 30,000 people may have been saved from either disability or even death from strokes if only they had consumed more vegetables and fruits. Vegetables and fruits serve to reduce risks of strokes according to latest research which is the first large scale project studying the risk. Unhealthy diets contribute towards stroke risks and its consequences.

In the UK alone about 15,000 people suffer from stroke every year, of which about 33% turnout to be fatal, while an equal number cause disability. The consumption of fruits and vegetable also has a beneficial effect where heart attacks are concerned, and it also serves to lower blood pressure. The potassium content in these is reportedly responsible for this.

There is a 26% reduction in the risk of stroke if a person were to consume about five portions per day of fruits and vegetables, while between 3 and 5 portions scale down the risk by 11%. Vegetables are rich in folate, fiber, potassium, and antioxidants. Dietary fiber and potassium reduce the chances of stroke by lessening the risk of cholesterol and blood pressure. Such positive diet modifications can also contribute towards reducing the chances of contracting certain cancers and cardiovascular diseases.

The deaths due to strokes in Scotland declined to 74.2 in 2004 for every 100,000 people compared to the 2003 figure of 79.1 in 2003 as a result of these positive changes in dietary habits. It has also been found that there is a lesser incidence of smoking in the case of people who eat a better diet and lesser junk food.