Although blood vitamin C levels also rise with vitamin C supplements, it was rare to take vitamin supplements in this Japanese community when the study began and therefore researchers cannot confirm the same benefit from them. The 196 strokes that occurred included 109 cerebral infarctions a stroke in which blood flow to the brain is blocked and 54 hemorrhagic strokes, which occur when an artery in the brain bursts. Another 33 strokes were of undetermined typed. Because a risk reduction was observed in both types of stroke, Yokoyama says the responsible mechanism probably extends beyond vitamin C s known antioxidant effects. Cerebral infarctions are considered to be the result of atherosclerosis, the build-up of fatty deposits in arteries.
Antioxidants can prevent the buildup.
Hemorrhagic stroke, on the other hand, results from a ruptured blood vessel in the brain. One plausible explanation is that vitamin C may be a marker for higher intake of other nutrients which may protect against stroke, explains Yokoyama. Although widespread screening to determine blood vitamin C levels might eventually be a good idea, it is too early to make such a recommendation, Yokoyama suggests. The researchers are preparing a database to analyze the association between blood levels of vitamin C and subsequent incidence of heart attack in the same population. By clicking the 'Search' button, you agree to the terms and conditions under Disclaimer .