How to decrease your stroke risk with healthy lifestyle choices

Diet

• A poor diet is a major risk factor for a stroke. High-fat foods can lead to the build-up of fatty plaques in your arteries and being overweight can lead to high blood pressure.
• A low-fat, high-fibre diet is recommended, including plenty of fresh fruit and vegetables (five portions a day) and wholegrains.
• Limit the amount of salt you eat to no more than one teaspoon a day, because an increased intake can increase your blood pressure.

Exercise

• Combining a healthy diet with regular exercise is the best proven way to maintain a healthy weight.
• Maintaining a healthy weight reduces your chances of developing high blood pressure.
• Regular exercise can improve your blood circulation and lower both blood cholesterol and blood pressure.

Avoid cigarette smoke

• Smoking doubles your risk of having a stroke. It narrows your arteries and makes your blood more likely to clot.
• If you stop smoking, you can reduce your risk of having a stroke by up to half. Not smoking will also improve your general health and reduce your risk of developing other serious conditions, such as lung cancer and heart disease.

Alcohol consumption

• Excessive alcohol consumption can lead to high blood pressure and an irregular heartbeat (atrial fibrillation). Both are major risk factors for stroke.
• Because alcoholic drinks are rich in energy (high in calories) they also cause weight gain. Heavy drinking multiplies the risk of stroke by more than three times.

For more information contact christelle.matthee@lifehealthcare.co.za.  Alternatively you can visit the website here.