Recovering from a health condition like stroke requires one to embrace healthy habits and lifestyle changes. While there are therapies and medications to boost up the recovery process, it largely depends on your eating habits too. Food choices that you make today can help you reduce the risk of high blood pressure, obesity and high cholesterol. Here are foods that help you recover fast after stroke as well as prevent it.
Foods that fasten recovery after stroke
Seasoning without salt
If you are one of those who finds flavored food delicious, seasonings such as cayenne pepper, onion flakes, and garlic is your cure. It not only helps in increasing water retention levels but also helps in maintaining your blood pressure. Recovering from stroke can be easy with such apt foods that add up to your appetite and satisfy your palette.
Olive oil
Stroke increases the chances of obesity and one must keep a check on the cholesterol level. While you may crave for certain foods which may not work in your best interest, there are relatable add-ons on the other hand like olive oil that can help you recover fast from stroke. Known to be rich in Vitamin E and monounsaturated fat, it certainly adds subtle flavor to your dishes.
Vegetables & Fruits
It is generally seen that patients have difficulty in swallowing and chewing food after a stroke. That’s why, it is important that you choose steamed veggies like broccoli, cauliflower, Brussels sprouts and pepper. These vegetables are also known to be rich in minerals, vitamins, and fibers. Coming to fruits, you can choose organic fruits to speed up your stroke recovery. Apples, pears and citrus fruit are some of the recommended fruits that improve microvascular function and increase the flow of fluids from blood vessels to body tissues.
Foods that help in stroke prevention
It is nothing less than a boon to detect the stroke symptoms early, but there are other ways also to prevent stroke like a healthy diet which includes:
Cereal
In order to prevent stroke, eating nutritiously is important as it enhances a healthy diet plan and what better than cereals to start with. Fiber-rich cereals are known to decrease the risk of high blood pressure and help in avoiding obesity. Besides, it controls high cholesterol too. While you may add flavors and colors to your cereal bowl, you must refrain from added salt. You can choose from whole grain varieties according to your taste. And, if you find cereal lacking in taste, you can always add blueberries and strawberries.
Dark Chocolate
Many studies have revealed that chocolate reduces the risk of stroke, especially dark chocolate. It helps in reducing heart disease as it contains heart-healthy antioxidants. It is suggested to have dark chocolate with cacao content as it makes you stay away from the cravings of excessive sugar. Dark chocolates are known to have saturated and monounsaturated fats, so you can consume it in moderation.
Beverages
Along with certain foods, there are few beverages that complement the diet and help in stroke prevention. An interesting study revealed that one cup of coffee a day can reduce the risk of stroke by 20%. Now that gives you a reason to love your coffee mug more. Green tea, too, reduces the risk of stroke by 14%. You can drink 2 to 3 cups of green tea a day to ensure that stroke is not coming your way anytime soon. Indulging in some health exercises is a plus with it.
This Blog is contributed by Dr. Rimpy kanwar. She has more than 8 years of working experience in the field of Physical Therapy. Her expertise lies in ortho-neuro and Pulmonary rehabilitation cases.