Caroline May, MBA, MS Nutrition, NBC-HWC
Every two seconds, someone in the world will have a stroke. In fact, it is the second leading cause of death globally and the third leading cause of disability. Stroke is also the leading cause of dementia and depression globally. In order to prevent the risk of strokes, our Nutrition expert outlines 10 ways to improve vascular health.
A stroke occurs when blood vessels, the veins and arteries throughout the body, fail to deliver oxygen to the brain either because they’re blocked (usually from a clot that forms from damage as in a build up of plaques) or because they’re too fragile and they rupture and leak.
What are the symptoms of stroke?
Symptoms of stroke are sudden onset of the following:
- Weakness or numbness in face or limbs, especially on one side
- Difficulty speaking or understanding speech
- Confusion
- Severe headache
- Dizziness, loss of balance, lack of coordination or difficulty walking
- Vision loss in one or both eyes
If you experience the symptoms of stroke, or observe them in someone else, it is important to seek medical attention right away.
Because strokes often lead to death or disability, it is worthwhile to know that these cerebral accidents are preventable by boosting vascular health.
How can you reduce your risk of stroke?
You can help reduce your risk of stroke by avoiding or managing these threats.
- Uncontrolled blood pressure
- Diabetes
- Unhealthy diet
- Abdominal obesity
- High cholesterol
- Smoking
- Low physical activity
- Obstructive sleep apnea
- Trauma
- Overtreatment with blood thinners
It is possible that your employer offers support to employees wanting to make lifestyle changes, like the ones mentioned above. Whether it is working with a health coach or participating in a tobacco cessation program, creating healthy habits is easier when you have someone support your efforts. It’s important to remember that it’s the daily choices we make day that create a lifestyle. What choices are you making that encourage robust health and a long, high quality life?
This article is meant for information purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Individuals should consult their health care providers to discuss health risks and preventative measures.
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