Consumption Of Sugary And Low-Cal Sodas Ups Risk Of Stroke

A U.S. study of soda and coffee consumption among more than 127,000 men and women found that regular intake of sugar-sweetened and low-calorie sodas is linked to a higher risk of stroke. The researchers also found that drinking decaf or regular coffee was associated with a lower risk of stroke. The sugar load of sugar-sweetened sodas may lead to rapid increases in blood glucose and insulin that over time may cause glucose intolerance, insulin resistance, and inflammation, all of which influence atherosclerosis, plaque stability and thrombosis – risk factors of ischemic stroke. Antioxidant compounds in coffee, however, reduce stroke risk. One serving of decaffeinated coffee was associated with a 10 percent lower risk of stroke.