(07-11-12) Eat tomatoes, avoid a stroke?

by Katie Brind''Amour

(NaturalNews) According to Finnish researchers, a diet rich in carotenoids
such as lycopene and beta-carotene may significantly lower the risk of stroke
for men. Higher concentrations of carotenoids in the blood were associated with
as much as a 55-59 percent decrease in the likelihood of having a stroke during
the 12-year study of over 1,000 Finnish men aged 46-65.

Fruit and vegetable consumption and carotenoid concentration in the blood has
gradually been gaining a positive reputation in maintaining cardiovascular
health. Lycopene (commonly found in tomatoes and watermelon) and beta-carotene
(which can be found in carrots, pumpkin, and spinach) are two of the chief
carotenoids believed to help in the prevention of stroke.

The magic of carotenoids
Carotenoids have numerous preventive effects. They have been renowned for
their ability to help prevent lung and prostate cancer, and their antioxidant
properties may be responsible for preventing the build-up of plaque in the
arteries, which is a crucial contributor to heart disease and stroke.

These benefits may arise as much from the general diet and lifestyle that
accompany the consumption of large amounts of carotenoid-containing vegetables.
Because of this, scientists are unable to draw a causal connection between
carotenoids and stroke. The research is promising; however, and researchers and
public health advocates alike are eager to point to results of studies like
this to encourage a well-rounded, veggie-heavy diet.

The highest concentrations of carotenoids can be found in fruits and
vegetables with red, orange, and yellow skins or flesh. Heavy hitters include
tomato paste, sweet potatoes, carrot juice, papayas, citrus fruits, and leafy
greens. Aim for at least five servings of fruits and vegetables each day, and
eat carotenoid-containing foods with a source of fat to help your body absorb
the nutrients properly.

Supplements may also be effective, although fewer studies have demonstrated a
strong connection between carotenoid pills and improved cardiovascular health.
Most physicians recognize the value of these amazing antioxidants but also
recommend a varied, nutritious diet and regular physical activity as the best
way to promote cardiovascular health.

In addition, although the study did not extend to women or young individuals,
researchers expect that a diet high in carotenoids and fruits and vegetables
will hold similar preventive effects for the general population.

Sources for this article include:

http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/22494809
http://www.healthline.com
http://lpi.oregonstate.edu

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