Study Links Mediterranean Diet to Reduced Stroke Risk in Women

A recent long-term study has revealed that women who adhere to the Mediterranean diet may significantly lower their risk of stroke, particularly as they age and after menopause. Conducted over 20.5 years with more than 105,000 participants from the California Teachers Study, the research indicates that women following this diet were 18% less likely to experience any type of stroke. The Mediterranean diet emphasizes plant-based foods, healthy fats, and moderate alcohol consumption, and the findings suggest its potential benefits extend to reducing risks of both ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes. This study reinforces existing evidence that a healthy diet can play a crucial role in preventing various health issues, including strokes in older women.

Key Details: • Women aged 55-75 have a 1 in 5 chance of having a stroke. • Participants were public school teachers from California, aged 38 to 67. • The study followed participants for over 20 years, starting in 1995. • Women on the Mediterranean diet had an 18% lower overall stroke risk. • Adherence to the diet may help mitigate stroke risks associated with menopause.