Research published in Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases (2005;15[3]:188–197) examined the relationship between nutrient intake and the incidence of heart attack and stroke in older adults.
The study included 755 men and women between the ages of 66 and 99. Dietary histories were collected, and serum vitamin and mineral levels were measured. Participants were then followed to assess the occurrence of stroke and myocardial infarction.
The researchers found that low dietary intake of vitamin D and low serum vitamin D levels were associated with an increased risk of stroke. In addition, low serum iron and low vitamin D levels were linked to a higher incidence of both stroke and myocardial infarction. Conversely, higher intake of certain bioflavonoids—plant-derived antioxidant compounds—was associated with a reduced risk of myocardial infarction.
These findings suggest that micronutrient status and dietary patterns may play a role in cardiovascular risk among older adults, although the observational nature of the study does not establish causation.
