Which Of The Following Is NOT A Phase Of The Cardiac Cycle?

Discover The Drink That Increases Stroke Risk

To lower the risk of stroke, sticking to water and avoiding sugary or fizzy drinks is crucial, according to a recent global review. The research also cautions against drinking more than four cups of coffee per day. Andrew Smyth, a professor of clinical epidemiology at the University of Galway in Ireland, emphasized that while high blood pressure is a major risk factor, stroke risk can be reduced through healthy dietary and physical activity choices.

Smyth advises minimizing or eliminating fizzy and fruit drinks, suggesting water as a healthier alternative. This recommendation comes from the INTERSTROKE study, which analyzed stroke risk factors in nearly 27,000 participants from 27 countries. Over half of the participants had experienced their first stroke, highlighting the study’s significance in understanding stroke prevention strategies.

The research found that consuming carbonated beverages, whether they contain sugar or artificial sweeteners, increases stroke risk by 22%. People who drank two or more fizzy drinks a day faced an even higher risk. Many fruit drinks, often made from concentrates and loaded with preservatives and added sugars, were also linked to increased stroke risk, with the chance of a bleeding stroke rising by 37% for those consuming these beverages. Women, in particular, were at greater risk of bleeding strokes linked to fruit juice consumption.

While freshly squeezed fruit juices may have health benefits, Smyth cautioned that processed fruit drinks with added sugars can be harmful. The research also explored the effects of coffee and tea, finding that stroke risk rises by 37% for those drinking more than four cups of coffee daily. In contrast, moderate consumption of tea—three to four cups a day—was associated with a lower stroke risk, though adding milk might reduce the antioxidant benefits.

Overall, drinking plenty of water—more than seven cups a day—can significantly reduce the risk of strokes caused by blood clots, making it a key recommendation for maintaining heart and brain health.