"5 Essential Ways to Prevent a Stroke"

5 Ways to Prevent Stroke

Stroke is a condition in which the brain suddenly receives insufficient blood supply, causing some brain cells to be damaged. Without prompt treatment, it may result in disability or death.

Stroke can affect people of every sex and age, especially those with chronic conditions such as high blood pressure, diabetes, or high blood lipids. Fortunately, it can be “prevented” by adjusting everyday lifestyle habits.

Risk Factors for Stroke

Before looking at prevention methods, first understand the main factors that can cause this condition:

• High blood pressure

• High blood lipids

• Diabetes

• Smoking

• Lack of exercise

• Accumulated stress

• Excessive alcohol consumption

• Increasing age, especially over 55 years

Ways to Prevent Stroke

Preventing stroke is not difficult when you begin caring for yourself consistently, focusing on the following 6 key principles:

1. Keep Blood Pressure Within the Normal Range

• Measure your blood pressure at least once a month, or more frequently if you have a chronic condition.

• Avoid salty or high-sodium foods such as processed foods and instant noodles.

2. Choose Foods That Support Blood-vessel Health

• Reduce saturated fat from foods such as fried foods, lard, and fatty meat.

• Increase vegetables, fruit, whole grains, beans, and marine fish.

• Reduce high-sugar drinks such as soft drinks and bubble milk tea.

3. Control Blood-sugar Levels

• People with diabetes should check their blood sugar regularly.

• Eat appropriate portions and have meals on time.

4. Stop Smoking and Limit Alcohol

• Nicotine damages blood-vessel walls, causing the vessels to harden and narrow more quickly.

• Excessive alcohol increases the risk of heart and brain disease.

5. Exercise Regularly

• At least 150 minutes per week, or approximately 30 minutes per day.

• Brisk walking, swimming, cycling, or light sports can also help greatly.

6. Have Regular Health Checks

• Check blood pressure, blood lipids, and blood sugar every year.

• If an abnormality is found, treatment and prevention can begin in time.