Potassium and strokes

According to an Italian study, potassium is of particular importance in the prevention of strokes. According to the project leader, an increase in the daily potassium intake could help to prevent some 1,155,000 strokes a year worldwide.

When increasing their daily potassium intake by 1.64 g, a 21% drop in the occurrence of strokes was recorded for study participants.

In addition, the research group found a reduced risk with regard to diseases of the coronary and other blood vessels.

Which types of food contain a lot of potassium? Most people know that bananas have a high potassium content. Almonds, however, contain twice as much potassium as the same amount of banana.

An increased potassium supply not only helps to prevent an initial stroke, but also reduces the risk of further strokes.

Nuts, whole-grain products, potatoes and vegetables have a high potassium content.

Especially pistachios have a high potassium content (1020 mg per 100g).

 

 

Source:

D’ Elia et al. (2011): Potassium Intake, Stroke, and Cardiovascular Disease: A Meta-Analysis of Prospective Studies. Journal of the American College of Cardiology, (57). p. 1210-1219.