Stroke can strike at any time, becoming
more common as people grow older.
Fortunately, you can reduce your risk
of stroke — at any age — with the
following strategies:
- If you smoke, talk with your
doctor about nicotine replacement
and other stop-smoking aids.
Smoking almost doubles your risk of
stroke. But your risk will start decreasing
as soon as you give up cigarettes.
- Limit your salt intake to help
control your blood pressure.
Processed foods, such as snack foods and
frozen entrees, are the source of most
salt in the American diet.
- Drink alcohol in moderation, if
at all. Heavy drinking, as well as
binge drinking, increases stroke risk.
- Look for ways to eat more fruits
and vegetables. For instance,
serve fruit for dessert.
- Choose whole-grain cereals and
breads. In one study, the more
whole-grain foods women ate, the lower
their stroke risk.
- Get moving for at least 30
minutes every day. Go for a
brisk walk or a bike ride.
- Ask your doctor whether you
should take aspirin. A daily aspirin
may help prevent stroke in certain people.
- Practice good dental habits to
prevent gum disease. People with
gum disease have a higher stroke risk.
- Seek treatment for depression.
Depressed adults are more likely
to suffer strokes.
