Stroke Risk Lowered

Put a significant dent in your chances of suffering a brain attack (stroke) by eating a diet that’s rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains. New research in the journal Stroke shows that a diet chock-full of phytochemicals (healthful plant compounds) may lower the odds of suffering a stroke, even if there has been a prior history of heart disease.
Heart-disease patients who consumed the most phytochemicals had a 57 percent lower risk of hemorrhagic stroke, compared with those with the lowest intake. Those who scored the biggest health benefits were found to eat twice as many fruits and vegetables.
The healthier group also ate more whole grains.
Even though this particular study focused on women, previous research suggests similar protective benefits for men. Just be sure to get your plant nutrients from the source, instead of from pills; past studies show no risk reduction from supplements.