Olive oil could cut stroke risk

Scientists have discovered that olive oil can help prevent strokes in people over 65.

As part of the study, published by the Neurology journal, researchers found that over-65s who use a lot of olive oil in cooking, on salads or with bread had a lower risk of a stroke than those who abstained.

Scientists claim that, based on the study, which involved following the dietary habits of 7,000 people aged 65 and over for five years, older people should be given new dietary advice.

"Stroke is so common in older people, and olive oil would be an inexpensive and easy way to help prevent it," said lead author, Dr Cecilia Samieri, of the University of Bordeaux.

The study found the stroke risk was 41 per cent lower in those who regularly used olive oil compared with those who never used it, once other factors such as diet, exercise and weight has been taken into account.

Dr Nikolaos Scarmeas, a member of the American Academy of Neurology, told the source that further studies are essential as the effects of olive oil could be indirect.