Strokes are the leading cause of long-term disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide. They occur when blood flow to the brain is interrupted, causing brain cells to die due to lack of oxygen.

While there are many different risk factors for stroke, certain vitamins have been shown to play a role in stroke prevention.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin that helps the body absorb calcium and is essential for maintaining healthy bones. Recent studies have also suggested that vitamin D may play a role in preventing stroke.

A study published in the journal Stroke found that individuals with low levels of vitamin D had a 53% increased risk of ischemic stroke, which occurs when a blood vessel leading to the brain is blocked by a blood clot.

Another study published in the Archives of Internal Medicine found that individuals with low levels of vitamin D were more likely to have a stroke or heart attack than those with higher levels.

Some foods that are high in vitamin D include fatty fish such as salmon, tuna, and mackerel, as well as egg yolks, cheese, and fortified milk and cereals.

However, it can be difficult to get enough vitamin D from diet alone, so many people choose to take a vitamin D supplement.

Vitamin E

Vitamin E is an antioxidant that helps protect cells from damage caused by free radicals. Some studies have suggested that vitamin E may also play a role in preventing stroke.

A study published in the New England Journal of Medicine found that individuals who took vitamin E supplements had a 17% lower risk of stroke compared to those who did not take the supplement.

However, other studies have not found a significant association between vitamin E and stroke prevention.

Foods that are high in vitamin E include nuts such as almonds, peanuts, and hazelnuts, as well as seeds such as sunflower seeds and pumpkin seeds. Spinach, broccoli, and kiwi are also good sources of vitamin E.

Vitamin C

Vitamin C, also known as ascorbic acid, is an antioxidant that is important for maintaining healthy skin, bones, and blood vessels. Some studies have suggested that vitamin C may also play a role in preventing stroke.

A study published in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition found that individuals who consumed more vitamin C had a lower risk of stroke.

Another study published in the Journal of the American Heart Association found that individuals who took vitamin C supplements had a lower risk of stroke compared to those who did not take the supplement.

Foods that are high in vitamin C include citrus fruits such as oranges, grapefruits, and lemons, as well as strawberries, kiwi, and bell peppers.

Vitamin B6

Vitamin B6, also known as pyridoxine, is important for maintaining healthy brain function and is involved in the metabolism of homocysteine, an amino acid that has been linked to an increased risk of stroke.

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that individuals with higher levels of vitamin B6 had a lower risk of stroke.

Another study published in the Journal of Nutrition found that a diet high in vitamin B6 was associated with a lower risk of stroke in women.

Foods that are high in vitamin B6 include poultry, fish, bananas, potatoes, and fortified cereals.

Vitamin B12

Vitamin B12, also known as cobalamin, is essential for maintaining healthy nerve cells and red blood cells. Some studies have suggested that vitamin B12 may also play a role in preventing stroke.

A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that individuals with higher levels of vitamin B12 had a lower risk of stroke.

Another study published in the European Journal of Neurology found that low levels of vitamin B12 were associated with an increased risk of stroke.

Foods that are high in vitamin B12 include meat, fish, and dairy products, as well as fortified cereals and nutritional yeast.

Conclusion

While there is no definitive way to prevent stroke, maintaining a healthy diet that is rich in vitamins and nutrients can help reduce your risk.

In addition to the vitamins discussed above, other nutrients that may play a role in stroke prevention include omega-3 fatty acids, folate, and magnesium. Talk to your healthcare provider about the best ways to reduce your risk of stroke.