The carotenoid level could have been the result of these men eating fruits and vegetables or taking antioxidant supplements.

The observational study shows an association between fruit and vegetable intake and stroke risk, but did not prove that eating fruits and vegetables caused the lower risk.

The results of this study support a diet high in fruits and vegetables to reduce ischemic stroke risk, she said.

The American Heart Association recommends a total well-balanced nutritious diet consisting of a variety of foods: fruits, vegetables, whole grain cereals and bread, nonfat and low-fat dairy products, lean meat, fish and poultry, and the use of monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats for saturated fat. 

Co-authors are A. Elizabeth Hak, M.D., Ph.D.; Calpurnyia B. Powell, B.S.; Hannia Campos, Ph.D.; J. Michael Gaziano, M.D.; Walter Willett, M.D., Dr.P.H.; and Meir J. Stampfer, M.D., Dr.P.H.

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