Stroke Prevention as a New Year’s Resolution

With the New Year upon us and resolutions being made, what will yours be?  Many people make the promise to themselves to be healthier this year.  This is a great opportunity to incorporate stroke prevention to your healthier lifestyle in the coming year! 

When it comes to preventing strokes, there are things that you can do to significantly reduce your risk of having one.  First,  make better choices when it comes to food and drinks.  Since high cholesterol is a contributing cause of strokes, choose  foods that are low in cholesterol such as foods that are low in saturated fats, trans fat, and high fiber.   Foods that contain high sodium (salt) can lead to increase in blood pressure, which is another risk factor for strokes.

Be an active.  Increasing your physical activity to 30 minutes a day can help control your body mass index (BMI), cholesterol levels, and blood pressure.  Know your optimal BMI to set goals for yourself when it comes to your body weight.

Cut out the bad habits that can harm your body.  Smoking and drinking alcohol in excess can cause long term harm to your body that is difficult to reverse.  Both of these habits can increase your blood pressure, therefore are a double risk factor for strokes.  

Take control of your medical conditions.  If you have a diagnosis such as heart disease, diabetes, or high blood pressure make sure that you are taking you prescribed medications regularly.  These conditions need to be monitored closely, therefore, following up with your health care provider is essential.  

Lastly, knowledge is power. Educate yourself on stroke prevention and ways to take control to prevent a stroke.  If you show any signs or a stroke, call 911 or get to the nearest Emergency Room fast.  

Time is Brain