British researchers writing in the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition have explored the relationship between blood vitamin C levels and the risk of stroke. So far, clinical trials of vitamin C supplementation haven't shown any benefit in reducing the risk of stroke. But this new study examines the plasma vitamin C levels and the risk of stroke in the British population.

Over 20,000 men and women aged 40 to 79 took part in the European Prospective Investigation into Cancer-Norfolk study. After a follow-up period of nearly 10 years, the 450-odd strokes were set in relation to the plasma vitamin C levels at baseline. Those in the top quarter of the participants based on vitamin C levels had a 42% lower risk than did those in the bottom quarter. This was independent of age, sex, smoking, body mass index, blood pressure, cholesterol, physical activity, diabetes, existing heart attack, social class, alcohol use, and supplements consumption - including vitamin C supplements.

We mustn't jump to conclusions. One can't conclude that vitamin C directly lowers stroke risk. It may merely show that vitamin C is a marker for a general healthier lifestyle. Or it may be that there could be other things, independent of vitamin C but consumed alongside the vitamin (e.g. lots of fruit and veggies), that's responsible. Nevertheless, it shows that whatever gets you to take or do something that raises your vitamin C level is a Good Thing!