Top 5 ways to decrease your stroke risk:
- Manage blood pressure: High blood pressure is a significant risk factor for stroke, so it's essential to keep your blood pressure in check. You can do this by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, limiting alcohol intake, and taking any prescribed medications as directed.
- Quit smoking: Smoking is a significant risk factor for stroke, and quitting can help reduce your risk. It's never too late to quit, and there are many resources available to help you quit, such as nicotine replacement therapy, support groups, and counseling.
- Exercise regularly: Exercise is crucial for maintaining overall health and can help reduce your risk of stroke. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise, such as brisk walking or cycling, on most days of the week.
- Maintain a healthy diet: A healthy diet can help reduce your risk of stroke by lowering your blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and weight. Eat a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats, and limit your intake of sodium, saturated and trans fats, and added sugars.
- Control diabetes: People with diabetes are at higher risk of stroke, so it's essential to manage your blood sugar levels. This can be done by eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, taking any prescribed medications as directed, and monitoring your blood sugar levels regularly.