Simple Healthy Habits to Prevent a Stroke
Lower blood pressure
High blood pressure is a huge factor, almost doubling your risk of stroke disease. Maintaining a blood pressure of less than 135/85 or at least 140/90 can help in stroke prevention. Reduce the salt in your diet to no more than about a teaspoon. Avoid high-cholesterol foods and eat lots of fruits and vegetables every day. If needed, take blood pressure medicines.
Diet
An unhealthy diet can increase your chances of having stroke disease by increasing your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Ensuring a balance in your diet is important. A low-fat, high-fibre diet is usually recommended, including plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables and whole grains. Try to eat depending on your activity level and your current BMI as obesity raises your odds of having a stroke
Exercise more
A healthy diet and regular exercise is the best way to maintain a healthy weight. Regular exercise can also help reduce your cholesterol and keep your blood pressure healthy. At least 150 minutes of moderately intense aerobic activity is recommended for stroke prevention.
Cut down on alcohol
Alcohol consumption can lead to high blood pressure, in turn increasing your risk of having a stroke disease. If you drink, do it in moderation. Not more than 14 units a week should be consumed. Watch your portion sizes and when possible choose red wine.
Treat diabetes
High blood sugar overtime damages blood vessels, making clots more likely to form. For stroke prevention, ensure to monitor and keep your blood sugar within the recommended range. Take medicines, if prescribed.
Quit smoking
Smoking significantly increases your risk of having a stroke disease by narrowing your arteries and making blood more likely to clot. Along with preventing risk of strokes, not smoking will also improve your general health. Use quit aids such as nicotine pills or patches, counseling, or medicine. Most importantly, don’t give up. Most smokers need several tries to quit.
Any pre-existing conditions that can increase your risk of stroke, should be well controlled to help prevent strokes. Special care is required for elderly in their post-stroke recovery. Many stroke patients struggle with motor impairments and need supervised attention at home. Emoha Elder Care offers holistic stroke rehabilitation and their passionate and trained experts help manage post-stroke and day to day obstacles providing them an easier and happier life.
