A stroke refers to either a blockage in an artery leading to the brain, which causes disrupted blood flow, or bleeding in the brain caused by a burst blood vessel. An ischemic stroke, or blockage, is responsible for 80 percent of strokes, and a hemorrhagic stroke, or brain bleed, makes up the other 20 percent, according to Sacred Heart Medical Center. Risk factors for stroke include smoking, high blood pressure, heart disease, diabetes and high cholesterol. Lifestyle is a primary factor in your possibility of stroke, including eating foods that will lower your risk. Consult your physician before trying to prevent a stroke with food.
Step 1
Reduce your sodium intake to help lower blood pressure. Stop adding salt to foods while you are cooking or eating, avoid processed and fast foods, and learn to read labels to detect foods with high sodium content before you buy them, says Sacred Heart Medical Center.
Step 2
Reduce caloric intake if you are overweight. Obesity can lead to heart disease and diabetes, which are both stroke risk factors. Eat more whole grains, lean meats, fruits and vegetables, nuts, seeds and healthy fats, such as olive oil.
Step 3
Limit the amount of saturated fat you consume to help control cholesterol. Plaque buildup in your arteries can lead to artery blockages, says MayoClinic.com. Stop eating fatty meats, fast foods and high fat dairy products if your cholesterol levels are elevated.
Step 4
Reduce the amount of refined sugar you eat, to help keep blood sugar levels under control. According to the American Diabetes Association, two out of three people with diabetes will die from stroke or heart disease. Limit sodas, cakes, candy, ice cream and other junk foods that will wreak havoc with your insulin levels.
