A stroke, CVA or cerebrovascular accident, occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain ceases, or when blood leaks into the brain. Interruption of the blood supply, damages the brain by depriving it of vital oxygen. Blood leakage impairs the brain by compressing and irritating brain tissue. When a stroke damages the nerve cells or tracts in the brain, these cells lose the ability to transmit messages to other parts of the body. Post-stroke treatment should include a healthy diet to provide nutrients to assist in the healing process. When the diet is not sufficient, supplements may be necessary.
Healthy Diet
A healthy diet is extremely beneficial after a stroke. A diet rich in micronutrients will meet the demands of increased stress due to healing. This diet should consist of whole grain breads and cereals, fresh fruits and vegetables, and complete, low-fat proteins. According to the National Stroke Association, restrict sodium intake to reduce high blood pressure and reduce cholesterol, saturated fat, and trans fatty acid intake to prevent further cholesterol buildup in the blood vessels. Eating dried apricots; cantaloupe, carrots and spinach are also excellent choices as these are antioxidant vegetables
Vitamin Supplements
Taking a supplement, particularly vitamins B6, B12 and vitamin C, will support the general health of blood vessels. According to the National Stroke Association, as a person ages, the body's ability to absorb these nutrients, lessens. Eating more fruits and vegetables will provide the body with these much-needed nutrients, though sometimes, your diet can fall short, making supplements necessary. According to "Prescription for Nutritional Healing," niacin, or B3 is also helpful in lowering your cholesterol level. Vitamin E, which thins blood, can be of help in preventing clots. However, your health care provider should monitor your supplements, particularly if you are also taking medication.
Mineral Supplements
Several of the essential minerals taken in supplement form can be beneficial if the diet is not rich in these nutrients. Post-stroke patients should take magnesium, selenium, and potassium to protect against future episodes. It is crucial, however, that these supplements be kept in "balance" as taking, too much or too little of a certain mineral, as well as certain vitamins, can cause unwanted side effects.
Natural Blood-Thinning Agents
Regular testing of Prothrombin time of the blood can help tailor supplements and medication to your current needs. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke, taking a higher dose of vitamins that act as natural blood-thinning agents or blood-thinning medication, or a combination of the two, can result in a tendency to bleed and bruise easily. According to MedlinePlus, this test measures the amount of time it takes for your blood to clot. Consulting a physician can be extremely important and beneficial in establishing a diet and supplement regimen.
Homocysteine Level
Another critical factor for post-stroke patients, as well as people predisposed to stroke due to heredity or life style, is an elevated plasma homocystein level. According to the National Stroke Association, homocystein is a naturally occuring amino acid, critical in the building of protein. Elevated levels increase the incidence of heart disease and stroke, as well as several other disorders. High amounts of this amino acid also relates to reduced levels of vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid, requiring supplements, as diet alone can rarely replace these nutrients.
References
- "Thorsons Complete Guide to Vitamins and Minerals;" Leonard Mervyn; 2000
- "Prescription for Nutritional Healing;" Phyllis A. Balch, CNC; 2008
- National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke: Post-Stroke Rehabilitation Fact Sheet
- National Stroke Association: Stroke Risk Reduction: A Healthy Nutrition Guide
- MedlinePlus: Prothrombin Time
