Coffee or tea: find out which drink best protects your brain from stroke

Coffee is one of the drinks that we drink most every day due to its many benefits, especially in the morning to boost our energy. However, according to a recent international study conducted by the University of Galway (Ireland) in collaboration with McMaster University (Canada), this is not the healthiest option. Researchers analyzed the habits of nearly 27,000 people in 27 countries and found a surprising link between coffee, tea and the risk of stroke.

Study results suggest that those who drink more than four cups of coffee a day may increase their chances of having a stroke. Although coffee is one of the most popular drinks in the world, it seems that too much caffeine can have adverse effects on our health. This substance, which increases blood pressure, is, according to scientists, a risk factor for stroke.

On the other hand, tea was the winner in this study. According to scientists, regular tea consumption is associated with a reduced risk of stroke. The compounds present in this drink may have neuroprotective properties that help keep our brain healthy. The habit of drinking three or four cups of green tea a day was associated with a 27% lower risk of stroke.

The effect of sugary drinks on the brain

In addition to coffee and tea, the study also examined the association between consumption of soft drinks and fruit juices (both sweetened and diet) and stroke risk. The results were clear: Frequent consumption of these drinks was associated with a higher risk of this type of stroke due to the sugar and other added ingredients that put them far removed from the healthier option of drinking natural juices or the fruit itself. .

Experts caution that while the results of this study are interesting, it must be kept in mind that it is observational in nature and does not establish a cause-and-effect relationship, which needs to be studied in depth based on these findings. Other factors such as overall diet, lifestyle and genetics also influence the risk of stroke.

The study is part of Interstroke, one of the largest international studies of stroke risk factors, involving nearly 27,000 people in 27 countries, including nearly 13,500 people who had had their first stroke.

Lead researcher Professor Andrew Smith from the Department of Clinical Epidemiology at the University of Galway and Consultant Physician at University Hospital Galway further said: “As a doctor and as someone who has researched the risk of stroke, we urge people to avoid or minimize the consumption of sodas and fruit drinks, and to consider substituting their water. Researchers also remember the importance of a varied diet and daily exercise.