According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, stroke is one of the leading causes of death in the United States. Stroke is often caused by high blood pressure and high cholesterol, two conditions that are common among American adults. Small lifestyle changes can make a big difference in reducing your risk.
Follow the "DASH Diet"
Researchers with the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute studied an eating plan called Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH). They found that a diet rich in fruit and vegetables, low-fat dairy products, whole grains, fish, poultry and nuts can effectively lower blood pressure. Although you may not be able to follow the DASH guidelines 100 percent of the time, commit to eating a DASH meal at least once a day.
Get Moderate Exercise Every Day
There's no need to run a marathon or do heavy exercise every day, but the evidence is strong that moderate exercise has a protective effect on the heart. Start by resolving to walk for five minutes a day, slowly increasing your walks over time.
Know Your Numbers
Monitor your blood pressure and cholesterol levels. Having high blood pressure and high cholesterol greatly increase your chance of having a stroke. Although a blood test is necessary to best measure your cholesterol, you can check your blood pressure for free at most pharmacies.
