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Boost B Vitamins, Slash Stroke Risk
24 Mar
Summary
- Certain B vitamins linked to up to 20% lower stroke risk.
- Higher B vitamin intake may reduce homocysteine levels.
- B vitamins also help regulate inflammation and vascular health.
New research indicates that increasing intake of certain B vitamins may play a role in reducing stroke risk. Analysis of data from two large national cohort studies, involving approximately 222,000 participants, revealed that higher consumption of vitamins B1 (thiamin), B2 (riboflavin), B3 (niacin), B6 (pyridoxine), and folate was associated with a lower risk of stroke.
Specifically, individuals with the highest intake levels of these B vitamins experienced up to a 20 percent lower risk of stroke compared to those with the lowest intake. This effect was observed over a two-decade follow-up period in one study and six years in another.
Experts suggest that elevated B vitamin levels might reduce stroke risk by decreasing homocysteine, a molecule that contributes to blood clots and artery damage. Additionally, B vitamins are believed to help regulate inflammation, a key factor in atherosclerosis, and support overall vascular health.
While both food and supplements were found to be beneficial, the study advises against high-dose supplementation without medical consultation. Prioritizing a diet rich in B vitamins from sources like dark leafy greens, legumes, and whole grains is recommended for optimal health and stroke prevention.
