A stroke can be devastating, turning an otherwise relatively healthy person into someone who is unable to walk, talk, or even feed themselves. Although many strokes can be minor and don’t result in long-term disabilities, some can be extremely traumatic, and either way, they are disruptive and dangerous. It is important that we do all we can to lower our risk of having a stroke, especially as we get older, and particularly if we have a family history of such events.
Here are some ways to reduce your risk.
Lower Your Blood Pressure
The number one reason for someone having a stroke is high blood pressure. It can quadruple your risk if it is not controlled. Therefore, it is important to monitor your blood pressure regularly to ensure that it remains within safe levels. If it is high, then it is imperative you do whatever you can to lower it.
There are a number of different ways of lowering your blood pressure, which include quitting smoking. Some people find this difficult, which is why they turn to vaping as an alternative. If this is something that you think could help you, check out Soupwire vape reviews for more information. Other ways to reduce your sodium intake include avoiding high cholesterol foods, and taking medication as prescribed by a doctor.
Lose Weight
Obesity and the complications that come with it such as type 2 diabetes and high blood pressure also increase your chances of having a stroke. Every pound you are able to lose means your chances of having a stroke are reduced; 10 pounds lost makes a significant difference. In order to maintain a healthy weight, you shouldn’t eat any more than 2,000 calories a day, and you should do regular exercise.
Exercise
As mentioned above, exercise will help you to lose weight, but it also keeps your body fit and healthy, which keeps your blood pressure regulated and your internal organs working as they should, pumping the blood around your body properly. Exercise doesn’t have to be a strenuous workout at the gym if you don’t want it to be; a brisk walk around the block during your lunch hour is enough to get you started. As your confidence builds, you can take on more challenges, but it’s best to start off easy to give your body a chance to get used to its new routine. Thirty minutes of moderate exercise per day will work wonders for you.
Drink In Moderation
Studies suggest that one alcoholic drink per day could reduce your risk of stroke. However, it is important to note that if you drink more than one on a regular basis, your risk of stroke can actually increase.
If you do want to have that one glass of alcohol, your best choice would be a glass of red wine because it contains resveratrol, a chemical which protects the brain and heart.
Treat Diabetes
Diabetes results in high blood sugar, and this is a problem when it comes to increasing your risk of stroke because high blood sugar damages blood vessels making clots much more likely. Your aim, therefore, is to keep your blood sugar levels in the right range. Make sure that if you are diagnosed with diabetes, you get your blood sugar levels checked regularly to see what is happening. Diet, exercise, and medication will help you maintain good levels.
