High Potassium Diets Reduce the Risk of Strokes

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High potassium diets reduce the risk of stroke The results of a study done by Harvard researchers suggest that middle-aged men who eat diets high in potassium have a reduced risk of stroke. The researchers looked at the impact of dietary potassium and other nutrients on the risk of stroke among 43 738 US men, aged from 40 to 75. The men, who had never been diagnosed with cardiovascular diseases or diabetes, completed a food questionnaire in 1986. During 8 years of follow-up, there were 328 strokes. Analysis of the results showed that men in the top fifth of potassium intake were 38 per cent less likely to have a stroke than those in the bottom fifth intake. Intakes of cereal fiber and magnesium, but not calcium or sodium also reduced the risk of stroke. The links appeared to be stronger in men with hypertension. Use of potassium supplements also reduced the risk of stroke, particularly among men taking diuretics. The authors concluded that the results were "consistent with the hypothesis that diets rich in potassium, magnesium, and cereal fiber reduce the risk of stroke, particularly among hypertensive men." Circulation 1998; Sep 22, 98:12, 1198-204The complete "Whole Body" Health line consists of the "AIM GARDEN TRIO" Ask About Health Professional Support Series: AIM Barleygreen "Wisdom of the Past, Food of the Future" http://www.geocities.com/mrsjoguest/AIM.html