Stroke Prevention
Someone has a stroke in America every 45 seconds, and some don't survive or are left with permanent disabilities. Stroke is the third leading cause of death after heart disease and cancer and once it's occurred, the damage may be irreversible. That's why it's important to reduce the risk of having one in the first place. Here are some stroke prevention strategies to lower your risk of being a stroke victim.
Kick the Habit
Still haven't kicked the habit? Smoking doubles the odds of having a stroke. It also raises blood pressure, which is another risk factor for stroke. You don't even have to light up to put yourself at risk. Exposure to second-hand smoke is a risk factor too. The good news? When you kick the smoking habit, your odds of having a stroke drop within a few years. Can't do it alone? Ask your doctor about medications that can help you quit once and for all.
Watch Your Diet
An elevated cholesterol level is linked with an increased risk of stroke. High levels of LDL the bad cholesterol that accumulates in your arteries and forms plaque can contribute to a stroke. Want to bring your LDL cholesterol level down? Cut back on high-fat meat and dairy products that contain too much saturated fat. Replace them with low-fat dairy and lean meat such as skinless chicken breast, turkey and fish. Fish have the added bonus of being a good source of omega-3 fatty acids, healthy fats that protect against stroke.
While you're at it, make more room for more fruits and vegetables on your dinner plate. They're low in fat, high in fiber and a good source of potassium to help lower blood pressure. Cut back on packaged foods and fast food. They're too high in salt.
Stay Active
If you're a couch potato, it's time to get out your walking shoes. Staying active reduces the risk of stroke by up to 30%. Exercise also helps to prevent or control other risk factors for stroke such as diabetes and high blood pressure. To lower your stroke risk, take a brisk walk first thing in the morning and another one after dinner. Gradually increase the speed and distance you walk as you become more fit. You'll be doing good things for your heart and your blood vessels at the same time.
Exercise has the added benefit of helping to control your weight. Being overweight or obese increases the risk of high blood pressure and diabetes, which are both risk factors for stroke. Give those exercise shoes and your body a work out!
See Your Doctor Regularly
Conditions such as high LDL cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes are all risk factors for stroke. Have your cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure checked regularly. Don't ignore your numbers. If they're too high, it's best to treat them early. You can do this with lifestyle changes and with medications when necessary. Keeping your cholesterol, blood pressure and blood sugar under control could save your life. Know your family history too. If stroke runs in your family, you may be at higher risk yourself, and it will be even more important to follow a healthy lifestyle.
The Bottom Line?
Not all strokes can be prevented, but making these simple lifestyle changes can reduce your chances of being a victim of stroke. Another bonus? You'll reduce your risk of heart disease too.
About the Author
Cinergy Health & Life Insurance Agency is dedicated to providing quality health and life insurance plans for people in a variety of life situations. For more information on a selection of health and insurance topics, visit http://www.cinergyhealth.com .
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