Folic Acid Lowers Stroke
Risk in Men
When men consume more folic acid,
they lower their risk of ischemic stroke by 30 percent.
So indicate the results of a 14-year-long study involving more than 43,000 men.
Results showed that those whose intake of folic acid was more than 821
micrograms (mcg) daily - more than twice the 400 mcg recommended dietary
allowance - were at a much lower risk of ischemic stroke, which is caused by a
blocked blood vessel, than men who consumed the least amount of folic acid daily
(about 262 mcg). Folic acid, a B vitamin, is believed to reduce ischemic stroke
risk by helping to lower levels of homocysteine, an amino acid that when present
in the body in large amounts can weaken artery walls. However, folic acid had no
effect on men's risk of hemorrhagic stroke.
Based on the results of the new study, the lead researcher, Dr. Ka He of
Northwestern University in Illinois, suggested that men increase their folic
acid intake to reduce their risk of ischemic stroke. The best sources of folic
acids are green vegetables, orange juice and beans, but B12 supplements can also
supply the necessary protection. The study results were published in the January
2004 issue of Stroke.
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