[Is a high intake of fruits and vegetables related to a lowered risk of cerebrovascular disease?].

The scientific evidence for a beneficial effect of an increased intake of fruits and vegetables rests on nine cohort studies. All cohort studies have shown a risk reduction in groups with high intakes of vegetables and/or fruits compared to groups with low intakes. The risk reduction has been about 30% in the scientifically best conducted studies. Further, many studies have demonstrated a dose-response association. It is not known if specific vegetables and fruits, or single nutrients alone, are particularly beneficial. A high intake of vegetables and fruits to reduce the risk of stroke should therefore be recommended.