Apples and pears can slash your stroke risk by half

(NaturalHealth365) Around 800,000 people per year have a stroke – in the United States alone – and, this avoidable health problem is the fifth leading cause of death in the nation. Those who survive a stroke are often left with a serious disability, including the loss of muscle functioning and motor control in portions of the body.

However, exciting research results out of Holland show that the simple act of adding more apples and pears to your diet can help to prevent incidents of stroke by up to 52 percent. The researchers believe that the high content of quercetin, a potent antioxidant in white-fleshed fruits is what gives these foods their healing power.

Of course, it should be noted that, most fruits and vegetables that have white flesh tend to be loaded with quercetin – not just apples and pears. {but, there’s more good news to this story – below)

The more apples and pears you eat, the lower your stroke risk

For the study, 20,000 people kept detailed records about the foods they ate daily over a 10 year period. When the data was analyzed, it showed participants who ate high amounts of fruit with white flesh, in particular apples and pears, showed a 52 percent reduced risk of having a stroke.

For every additional 25 g of white fruits and vegetables a person consumed, their risk of stroke fell by 9 percent. That old adage about ‘an apple (or more) a day keeps the doctor away’ seems to also apply to strokes.

Quercetin, in apples and pears, is the key to reducing blood clots

The biggest stroke risk factors include high cholesterol and high blood pressure. Smoking is also a risk factor, and quitting smoking while also eating more apples and pears has been shown to reduce stroke risk even further.

In addition, family history plays a role in overall stroke risk, but lifestyle choices (without a doubt) can make all the difference in avoiding a stroke in your older years.

The quercetin found in high amounts in white-fleshed fruits is known for its ability to support cellular health and functioning. It also inhibits inflammatory cytokines production – which is known to assist in blood clotting regulation.

We should also remember that clogged arteries are a main cause of a stroke – so, diet is a sensible way to maintain a healthy circulatory system.

Natural (safe) ways to dramatically reduce your risk of a stroke

In addition to apples and pears: bananas, grapefruit, onions and legumes contain quercetin. However, taking a quercetin supplement can also help to bring you anti-stroke benefits.

The recommended dose of quercetin is generally 250 mg per day, but you should check with your doctor to determine the ideal dose for you.

Other foods and supplements that can help to create a dietary defense against stroke include omega-3 fats, CoQ10, garlic, pomegranate, citrus fruits, vinpocetine and green tea.  Naturally, engaging in regular physical activity and maintaining an ideal body weight, blood pressure and cholesterol levels will also help to reduce your stroke risk.

Sources for this article include:

CDC.gov
LifeExtension.com
AHAJournals.org
NaturalHealth365.com