Excessive consumption of coffee, fruit juices, and carbonated drinks—beverages infused with carbon dioxide, such as soda, energy drinks, and sparkling water—significantly raises the risk of strokes, recent scientific studies have revealed.
A series of studies conducted by the universities of Galway in Ireland and McMaster in Canada found that excessive intake of carbonated drinks, whether sweetened with natural or artificial sugars, increased the risk of strokes by 22%.
Moreover, the studies which involved tens of thousands of participants from 27 countries, found that fruit juices, in particular, were linked to a 37% increased risk of haemorrhagic strokes (brain bleeds), especially among women.
Researchers attributed this elevated risk to the high sugar content and harmful preservatives in many fruit juice products. They recommended drinking more than seven cups of water daily to reduce the risk of strokes caused by blood clots in the brain.
The findings also encouraged the avoidance of carbonated beverages and fruit juices, suggesting water as a healthier alternative.
Another study revealed that consuming more than four cups of coffee daily raised stroke risk by 37% while drinking three to four cups of black or green tea significantly reduced stroke risk.
Researchers emphasised that high blood pressure is one of the most critical factors increasing the risk of stroke. However, these risks can be mitigated by following a healthy diet and engaging in regular physical activity.
