Strokes are a devastating event changing lives in an instant. Believe it or not, many stroke incidents can potentially be avoided through a few simple steps. Not sure what we mean? Let us take you through a few lifestyle changes that will help prevent you from suffering a stroke.

You may always think that the “five a day” recommendation is a cliché but it is very much a home truth. The healthier you eat, the healthier you stay. Enjoying a good, balanced diet works wonders for your health and reduces the possible risk of a stroke happening or reoccurring.

• Moderate salt levels
  Salty foods are a big contributor to high blood pressure – a key trigger for causing strokes. Reducing your salt intake may maintain your blood pressure within a normal range, so try avoiding foods high in salts such as chips, ready meals, and cured meats.
• Eating natural products
  The “five a day” routine is well known but there is a good reason for it. The natural antioxidants in many fruit and vegetables supply plenty of vitamins and minerals that can help the body stay healthier for longer.
• Avoid alcohol consumption
  Alcoholic drinks could increase your blood pressure or the risk of having a stroke. Therefore, the best is to limit its consumption.

Exercising regularly can play a key part of reducing the risk of stroke over time. An active lifestyle doesn’t need to be strenuous and can help in the rehabilitation of recovering stroke patients. Some examples include:

• Walking at least 30 minutes a day
  A walk around the block, to the shops, or to a park keeps your muscles and your heart healthy by improving your blood circulation and oxygen supply.
• Quit smoking
  All the tar and chemicals inside cigarettes can quickly block arteries around your body, significantly increasing the risk of stroke and several other severe diseases (e.g. cardiovascular, respiratory, cancer).
• Obesity
  This drives issues such as high cholesterol and blood pressure. So, reducing your weight can help avoid the risk of a stroke as you get older.