Stroke is a cerebrovascular disease. It occurs when the blood flow to the brain is diminished, depriving the brain tissue of nutrients and oxygen. As a result, the brain cells begin to degenerate. This can be fatal. It is currently one of the world’s biggest public health issues. It ranks as the third most common cause of mortality globally.
The majority of stroke incidents are ischemic strokes. They appear when a blood clot, known as thrombus, prevents the brain from getting enough oxygen and blood. The blood clots tend to constrict the arteries gradually, which then results in an obstruction over time.
Fat deposits may also accumulate in the arteries as a result of high cholesterol levels, causing the arteries to become constricted. This makes it difficult for blood flow, increasing the risk of heart disease and stroke.
As the saying goes, prevention is always better than cure. Addressing the underlying causes is the most effective method to prevent stroke. It can also be accomplished by a change of lifestyle, such as exercise and maintaining a healthy diet.
The following are some of the best foods that may prevent stroke:
12 Foods That May Prevent Stroke
Yogurt
Probiotics, calcium, zinc, and potassium are among the nutrients found in yogurt. These are essentials for maintaining cardiovascular health. Increasing yogurt and milk intake decreases the events of serious cardiovascular diseases such as heart attack and stroke. Additionally, it is simple to eat and makes you fuller for longer.
Oatmeal
Whole grains like oatmeal improve brain function. It lowers the level of triglycerides and harmful low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol, thereby minimizing the incidence of cardiovascular diseases. It further enhances cognition and lessens the risk of recurrent stroke. It can be enjoyed better by incorporating fresh fruits, such as blueberries and strawberries, for additional flavor.
Tomatoes
This is one more reason to love tomatoes. They help reduce the risk of ischemic stroke, which is caused by the obstruction of a brain artery. This obstruction deprives the brain cells of oxygen, resulting in cell death. Tomatoes contain antioxidants that can help to prevent cell damage. By preventing cell damage, they provide a protective effect against stroke.
Citrus Fruits
Higher fruit intake is associated with reduced stroke risk. Folate, Vitamin C, and potassium are abundant in citrus fruits. They are rich in dietary fiber and antioxidants that avoid blood clots and promote cardiovascular health. They also have flavonoids – some substances with anti-inflammatory and antioxidant factors that help prevent stroke. Some of these fruits include grapefruits and oranges.
Leafy Green Vegetables
Leafy green vegetables have elements that improve cognitive function and reduce blood pressure. Consuming kale, spinach and other vegetables on a daily basis improves memory and focus. They contain folate and other vitamins such as vitamins B, E, and K. They are also high in dietary nitrates that are converted to nitric oxide in the body, which are crucial for controlling blood flow.
Walnuts
Taking walnuts regularly reduces the level of unhealthy cholesterol and mitigates the risk of cardiovascular diseases. In addition, they increase the level of healthy cholesterol. When adding nuts to their diet, many worry that they will gain extra weight. However, since walnuts have healthy fats, there may be no occurrence of unnecessary weight gain.
Garlic
Garlic is an extraordinary plant because of its numerous medicinal benefits. Ajoene, a chemical found in it, stops the blood platelets from aggregating and playing their role in hemostasis. Without the formation of blood clots, stroke can be prevented. Additionally, garlic lowers bad cholesterol levels and boosts healthy cholesterol levels. Eating raw garlic provides the best results.
Fatty and lean fish
Omega-3 fatty acids called EPA are present in fatty fish like mackerel, salmon, and fresh tuna. This component lowers inflammation and enhances blood flow, thereby minimizing the likelihood of stroke. They also play a role during speedy stroke recovery. Likewise lean fish like cod, mahi-mahi, and snapper, contain nutrients such as selenium and iodine, that can prevent stroke.
Red Wine
Even though it might appear unexpected, drinking a glass of red wine daily can actually decrease the risk of having a stroke. This is linked to the fact that red grapes contain the antioxidant – resveratrol. When inside the body, this substance initiates certain chemical changes that prevent stroke. However, it is best to limit your daily alcohol intake to enjoy these healthy advantages of red wine.
Onions
Organosulfur molecules are plentiful in onions. These substances are responsible for the overpowering flavor and aroma present in onions. They also aid in dissolving blood clots and lower the cholesterol levels in the body. They also contain quercetin which offers anti-inflammatory and antioxidant effects. They reduce the chance of developing heart attack and stroke. Either when making fajitas or a hot dog, ensure to incorporate onions in your diet. The potential downsides, however, are body odor and bad breath.
Dry Beans
Everyone can agree beans are delicious. In addition, they are also able to save lives. Just like probiotics, prebiotics are necessary for the body. Most legumes, including dry beans, help with the formation of healthy bacteria in the digestive system. They are soluble fibers and are found to be very beneficial in the diminishment of strokes. Furthermore, eating a diet rich in magnesium can considerably prevent stroke and beans are among the best dietary sources of magnesium.
Flaxseeds
Flaxseeds contain two important ingredients – lignans and ALA. These prevent the release of specific pro-inflammatory chemicals that reduce the inflammation that comes along with certain diseases. By reducing inflammation, flaxseeds can help to prevent heart attacks and strokes. Also, eating flaxseeds regularly reduces artery hardening and plaque buildup in the arteries.
Conclusion
Age and having a relative who has had a stroke can increase your risk of having one. No one can turn back the hands of time or alter a family history but knowledge is power. With the appropriate diet and other measures, the effects of a risk factor can be lessened. Begin your stroke prevention scheme today and learn more about foods that may prevent stroke.
