In men who smoke, drinking coffee and tea may reduce the risk of stroke caused by a blocked artery, according to a new study published in the June 2008 issue of the journal Stroke.
In this study, 26,556 adult men who smoked were followed for more than 13 years. These men volunteered information about their diet, including coffee and tea drinking habits, to help the researchers establish if there was a link between these beverages and stroke risk. None of the men had a history of stroke.
When compared to men who drank less than two cups (500 ml) of coffee per day, men who drank eight or more cups (2 L) of coffee per day were 23 percent less likely to suffer a stroke.
Drinking two or more cups of tea per day was associated with a 21 percent drop in stroke risk.
As in previous studies, the researchers believe the antioxidants in coffee and tea may have the potential to reduce stroke risk.
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is cut off by a blockage in an artery. A blockage is often caused by hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis) which is associated with heart disease.
According to the Heart and Stroke Foundation, stroke is the fourth leading cause of death among Canadians.
Looking for new ways to enjoy a cup of Joe? Check out the coffee recipes in our March 2006 Featured Food.
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