A stroke can happen to both men and women due to an interruption to the supply of blood to the brain. Having a family history of strokes can put you at a higher risk than others for having one. Here are some helpful tips to follow to reduce your risk of having a stroke regardless of initially being at a higher risk.
Keep Your Blood Pressure Low
High blood pressure can almost quadruple your chances of having a stroke. It's best to monitor your blood pressure and activity when it's too high. You should aim for a blood pressure of 135/85. You should start by reducing salt in your diet and avoid high-cholesterol foods. Try and exercise at least three times a week for 30 minutes or more. If you currently smoke, then give it up.
Drop Those Extra Pounds
Obesity can increase your risk of having a stroke. It's best to keep your BMI at 25 percent or less. Any locum tenens stroke doctor in your area can work with you to develop a diet and exercise plan that will assist you in losing the extra weight. Aim for eating between 1,500 and 2,000 calories per day. Remember that regular exercise is key to burning extra calories throughout the day.
Alcohol In Moderation
When it comes to alcoholic beverages, you should ditch overdoing it. While studies suggest having a glass a day to reduce your risk of a stroke, more than one greatly increases your odds of having a stroke. You should aim for one glass a day and pay close attention to your portion size. A glass of wine is five ounces while beer is typically considered 12 ounces.
Exercise More
Having a regular exercise routine does wonders for reducing your risk of a stroke. Not only does exercise help you to lose weight but it will also lower your blood pressure. It's recommended to undergo an exercise routine that is considered moderate. Aim for five days a week to keep your body moving. If you have trouble starting with 30-minute programs, then consider breaking that up into two different 15-minute programs.
When it comes to preventing strokes, you have a lot that you can do about it. You don't have to be plagued by your genetics or your lifestyle. By instituting the four tips above, you can work to lower your risk of having a stroke in the future.
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Anica Oaks is a professional content and copywriter who graduated from the University of San Francisco. She loves dogs, the ocean, and anything outdoor related. You can connect with Anica on Twitter @AnicaOaks.
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Founder Ray Spotts has a passion for all things natural and has made a life study of nature as it relates to health and well-being. Ray became a forerunner bringing products to market that are extraordinarily effective and free from potentially harmful chemicals and additives. For this reason Ray formed Trusted Health Products, a company you can trust for clean, effective, and healthy products. Ray is an organic gardener, likes fishing, hiking, and teaching and mentoring people to start new businesses. You can get his book for free, “How To Succeed In Business Based On God’s Word,” at www.rayspotts.com.