Fruit and vegetable consumption and risk of stroke: a meta-analysis of cohort studies.

Adequate consumption of fruits and vegetables may reduce an individual's chances of suffering from stroke.

The aim of this meta-analysis was to investigate whether an association exists between high dietary ingestion of fruits and vegetables and the risk of developing stroke. Researchers conducted a meta-analysis on data extracted from 7 studies that examined 232,049 subjects and 2,955 cases of strokes.

Researchers observed a significant decline in the risk of stroke among subjects who are regular consumers of fruits and vegetables. Regular daily intake of an extra portion of fruits, vegetables, and both fruits and vegetables was found to reduce stroke risk by 11%, 3%, and 5% respectively. The findings of this review suggest that consistent consumption of diets high in fruits and vegetables may confer individuals with significant protection against stroke.