A stroke occurs when a blood clot or ruptured blood vessel cuts off the blood supply to a person’s brain. A person can reduce their risk of stroke by eating a healthy, balanced diet. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), stroke is the third leading cause of disability and the second leading cause of death worldwide. This article explores the types of foods you should eat and avoid to reduce your risk of stroke. It also provides other tips for preventing strokes.
Foods to prevent strokes
A 2015 meta-analysis of 12 studies examining the effect of the Mediterranean diet on stroke found that people who adopt it may have a lower risk of stroke. However, more research is needed. The Mediterranean diet includes healthy food options such as whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and fish. It is recommended to seek the advice of a doctor before making any significant changes to your diet, especially if you are taking medication. Some foods can interact with medicines.
whole grains
Another 2015 meta-analysis found that a high intake of whole grains may reduce the risk of stroke. However, the authors note that more studies are needed. The authors of a 2017 study reported that higher consumption of whole grains and bran-based cold breakfast cereals was linked to a lower risk of ischemic stroke. However, overall consumption of whole grains was not associated with a reduced risk of ischemic stroke. Furthermore, the authors concluded that more research was needed.
Whole foods that a person may want to try include:
oatmeal
his
quinoa
Integral rice
whole grain bread
fruits
Many fruits contain dietary fiber and antioxidants, and can help reduce any inflammation, prevent blood clots, and maintain cardiovascular health.
According to an earlier study from 2013, eating fruits and vegetables rich in vitamin C may help reduce a person’s risk of stroke.
Here are some fruits that people may want to try:
pears
orange
apples
bananas
strawberries
grapefruits
blueberries
Vegetables
Many vegetables contain vitamins, minerals, and fiber. A 2021 study suggests that a high fiber intake may help lower blood pressure and serum cholesterol levels. High blood pressure and high cholesterol are risk factors for stroke.
Vegetables that a person may want to try are:
carrots
cabbage
broccoli
attorney
Peppers
Tomatoes
green leafy vegetables
proteins
Research from 2017 indicated that higher dietary protein intake may have reduced the risk of stroke in the general population of Japan. However, the authors suggested the need for more studies on protein intake and stroke.
Some healthy sources of protein include:
lean meats and poultry
yogurt
fish like salmon, tuna, and sardines
eggs
the beans
lentils
peas
tofu
nut
Foods to eat less
People who want to reduce their risk of stroke may consider limiting their intake of certain foods.
foods high in cholesterol
Research from 2018 suggests that high cholesterol can increase a person’s risk of ischemic stroke, which accounts for 87% of all strokes. Having too much cholesterol in your blood can cause fatty deposits to build up in your arteries. These deposits can suddenly break loose and form a blood clot that travels to the brain, causing a stroke.
Foods high in cholesterol are:
whole milk products
Red meat
processed meat, including bacon and sausage
desserts such as cakes and other baked goods.
Foods high in cholesterol are often also high in saturated fat, which can raise cholesterol levels. More research may be needed on how dietary cholesterol affects blood cholesterol.
Foods high in saturated fat
If a person eats too much saturated fat, low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels in the blood can increase. High levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood increase the risk of stroke and heart disease.
Saturated fats occur naturally, especially in animal products. Foods that contain saturated fat are:
the lamb
the ox
the pig
the butter
Palm oil
coconut oil
poultry
certain fried foods
cheese
ice cream
Foods High in Trans Fats
Trans fats are naturally present in some animal products. Manufacturers may add artificial trans fats to certain foods through the use of hydrogenated oil. Eating foods high in trans fats can increase LDL cholesterol levels and lower high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels. HDL cholesterol helps remove other types of cholesterol from the body, which is why some people call it the “good” cholesterol.
Foods high in trans fat include:
fried foods, such as donuts
spreads, including margarine
baked goods, such as cakes, frozen pizzas, and cookies.
Other Tips for Stroke Prevention
You can help prevent a stroke by making lifestyle changes, including:
avoid smoking
keep a healthy weight
limit alcohol intake
exercise regularly
follow the doctor’s recommended treatment plan for any underlying health conditions.
Resume
A number of foods can help reduce the risk of stroke. People can decide to eat more fruits, vegetables, and lean meats while limiting foods high in cholesterol, saturated fat, and trans fat. Additionally, lifestyle modifications, such as avoiding smoking and maintaining a healthy weight, may be helpful. It is recommended that you consult a healthcare professional before making any significant dietary or lifestyle changes for further guidance. This is especially important for people who take medication or have medical conditions.
* HealthKey strives to convey health knowledge in a language accessible to all. In NO EVENT can the information provided replace the opinion of a health professional.
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stroke race Cholesterol