South Korean researchers have discovered that soju, a locally made spirit, can reduce the risk of strokes in both men and women. The findings came from neurologists at the Seoul National University hospital in Bundang, Business Korea reported.
They discovered that consuming one shot reduced stroke possibilities by 62% in males. Having two shots reduced the possibility of stroke by 55% and three to four shots still had a considerable reduction of 46%. Women who had only one or two shots of soju also benefitted from its anti-stroke properties.
Similar stroke prevention properties have already been previously observed in beer and wine. However, this latest research is the first evidence that soju, a spirit made of ethanol and water, also shares such medicinal effects, the Korea Herald reported. Stroke prevention was most pronounced in minimal soju intake. Each shot contained 10g of the spirit.
A stroke happens when cerebral veins fail to deliver blood to the brain and causing its cells to die. In Korea, most strokes, or 70-80% of cases, are attributed to blockages in blood flow. The other kind of stroke, the kind that bleeds, is less common in the country.
"Previous research on the relationship between drinking and strokes was based on Westerners, who mostly consume wine or beer," researchers said. "It is significant to find the effect of locally brewed spirits on South Koreans."
The study involved the participation of 1,848 patients aged 20 and above who were already part of the research database. However, an additional 3,589 participants were included as a comparison group.
For now, the research only indicates positive effects of soju on stroke prevention when consumed in moderate amounts. For this reason, South Koreans are still advised to refrain from excessive drinking.
Do you like soju too? Share this article if you think this Korean liquor is the answer to stroke problems!
