A recent study reveals that some common drinks could be harmful to our brain health.
Each year, about 140,000 strokes are recorded in France, which averages to one every four minutes. This medical emergency can occur at any age, although the risk increases over time. Besides aging, several other risk factors exist, such as overweight, hypertension, and especially, our dietary choices.
Recognizing good drinks from bad drinks
Researchers analyzed the consumption habits of 27,000 participants across 27 countries, as part of the extensive stroke study named INTERSTROKE. They observed that drinking two sodas a day increases stroke risk by 22%. Industrial fruit juices, often seen as healthier, raise this risk by 37%.
Soft drinks, whether sugary or sweetened, are particularly concerning. Regular consumption is associated with health issues, particularly ischemic strokes. Professor Andrew Smyth highlights the importance of reducing soda consumption.
Fruit juices, due to their added sugar content, are also harmful. Indeed, these drinks, often made from concentrates, can be more dangerous than freshly pressed juices. According to Andrew Smyth, the type of juice consumed can make a big difference to health.
Coffee, although offering benefits in moderate amounts, can increase stroke risk when consumed in excess. Researchers found that drinking more than four cups a day raises this risk by 37%. The results of the study also highlight the importance of water and tea in preventing strokes. Indeed, drinking at least seven glasses of water daily could reduce stroke risk. Moreover, regular consumption of black or green tea would decrease the risk by 29% and 27%, respectively.
The authors of this research encourage a re-evaluation of beverage choices to protect brain health. Choosing water and tea over sodas or concentrated juices could help reduce the risk of stroke.
What is a stroke and why do certain drinks increase the risk?
A stroke occurs when a blood vessel in the brain becomes blocked or ruptures. This leads to a loss of oxygen and nutrients for brain cells, causing irreversible damage. There are two main types of stroke: ischemic (caused by a blood clot) and hemorrhagic (rupture of a vessel).
Sugary drinks, such as sodas and industrial fruit juices, increase the risk of stroke due to their impact on blood sugar levels and blood pressure. Excess sugar promotes inflammation and vascular dysfunction, thus increasing the risk of vessel blockage or rupture.
In contrast, drinks like water and tea can protect the brain by helping to maintain optimal hydration and providing beneficial antioxidants.
Article author: Cédric DEPOND