Multiple Cups of Java May Reduce Stroke Risk in Women

WATCH Cup of Coffee a Day Keeps the Reaper Away








Studies of Association, Not Causation








"How do we even know that their self-estimated consumption was accurate?" asked Sila. "Why was there a no dose-response? If one cup is better, shouldn't five cups be amazing? How do we know that they were still doing in 1998 to 2008 was what they were doing in 1997?"

Stick to the Tried and True

While Sila did not deny coffee's possible ability to reduce stroke risk, there are several other major and more scientifically backed factors that contribute to stroke prevention.

"The 'big ticket items' for stroke prevention are the real story," said Sila. "High blood pressure is the most important risk factor for stroke and has been called the silent killer."

Sila said most people in the United States don't know they have high blood pressure or are not at their blood pressure goal, or know they have it but don't do anything about it.

Other "big ticket" items include high cholesterol, diabetes and irregular heart conditions (called atrial fibrillation).

Sticking to the tried and true is what really counts in reducing the risk of stroke, say medical experts.

A diet rich in fruits and vegetables, low in sodium and high in potassium, said Goldstein, "can dramatically reduce risk," along with "not smoking and not being exposed to secondhand smoke, not drinking in excess, regular exercise and keeping a lean body mass."