Nutritional supplements containing isoflavone – a chemical that is found in soybeans and legumes – can improve the blood flow in the arteries of stroke patients, new research reveals.

The study, published in the European Heart Journal, looked at the effects of a daily dose of 80 milligrams of isoflavone on 50 stroke victims, whose results were compared with those who took placebos.

After 12 weeks, researchers noted that the isoflavone led to improved blood flow in the brachial artery, which indicated improved functioning.

“Our study implied that diets with higher isoflavone contents might be beneficial in reducing cardiovascular risk in ischaemic stroke patients,” commented researcher Tse Hung-fat, cardiology professor at the University of Hong Kong.

He added that many foods with high isoflavone levels offer additional health benefits, such as fiber, vitamins and low quantities of saturated fat.

Isoflavones can be found in foods such as tofu, lentils, chickpeas, alfalfa and peanuts. It can also be consumed in the form of nutritional supplements.

Previous studies have also linked a soy-rich diet with lower cholesterol levels.