New research reveals that people can naturally protect themselves from having a stroke simply by eating apples and pears. Apparently, they are a very effective preventative form of medicine.
One study that was conducted actually suggested that the color of certain fruit may actually contribute to preventative factors for a stroke. All of us know the numerous health benefits associated with eating lots of fruits and vegetables, but this study is the first of its kind to actually suggest that eating fruit that contain an edible, white portion could potentially lower the risk of having a stroke by a whopping 52%. In another study, potassium was found to greatly reduce the risk of having a stroke. Bananas are an example of potassium-rich foods.
A research team from the Netherland’s Wageningen University published their findings in The Journal of the American Heart Association.
For this study, the research team categorized different fruits and vegetables according to color, which also was indicative of varying phytochemical classes which have been studied previously in regards to their impact on overall wellness.
Green, leafy vegetables such as cabbage and lettuce, fruits and vegetables that were red or purple in color, yellow and orange citrus fruits, and varying white fruits were all included in this study. A total of 55% of all of the ‘white fruits’ were pears and apples.
The findings of this research revealed a 9% decrease in risk of a stroke for each 25 grams of white fruit and vegetable consumption, such as pears and apples, on a daily basis. The participants in the study were followed and analyzed for a total of 10 years and their dietary intake was evaluated by using food questionnaires at frequent intervals.
According to the researchers, in order to prevent a stroke, people may begin considering adding a considerable amount of white fruits such as pears and apples, and other white vegetables to their daily diet. By simply eating one pear or apple each day, you are still increasing your intake of white fruits and vegetables to some extent.
This is not to say that only white fruits and vegetables are beneficial to our health. Other colored fruits and vegetables have been known to protect against other various conditions and diseases. Therefore, people should continue to try and consume as many fruits and vegetables as possible each day.
Let us be clear that this study does not conclusively state that pears and apples can automatically lower your risk of having a stroke. Researchers feel that they need more time to continue research and more time to conduct further studies. For example, researchers noted that the people who are eating more white fruits and vegetables may also have certain other healthier habits that may instead account for the finding.
Pears, apples, and many other fruits and vegetables are abundantly rich in fiber, minerals, vitamins, and a number of important health compounds. This study simply suggests that consuming pears and apples, along with other white fruits and vegetables could potentially decrease one’s risk of having a stroke.
References:
Stroke, AHA Journal: doi: 10.1161/STROKEAHA.110.611152. Colors of Fruit and Vegetables and 10-Year Incidence of Stroke. Linda, M. Oude Griep. Et al.
Blanchard, K. RN. 2011. Lower Stroke Risk Found from Eating Apples and Pears.