Shopping for Stroke Prevention
Oct-24-2012

It's becoming more and more apparent that we need to start taking care of ourselves at a younger age - a recent study published online in Neurology found that strokes are affecting a greater amount of adults before they reach middle age. The study found that the number of adults under 55 who suffered a stroke has increased notably over the past ten years.

More specifically, researchers found that the average age people suffered a stroke fell from 71 (1993-1994) to 69 in 2005. After more data crunching, they found that 13 percent of stroke sufferers were adults aged 20-54 during 1993-1994, and in 2005, 19 percent.

There are various explanations for the increase in stroke in a younger age group; one, a rise in risk factors such as obesity and diabetes, another the fact that diagnostic techniques are getting better and better. Regardless, there are various modifiable risk factors to note. Quitting smoking is top of the list, as well as getting more exercise and moving more (possibly even yoga or meditation to help with blood pressure), and improving one's diet.

Here are some of SupermarketGuru's tips:
First off, create a shopping list, creating a list ahead of time not only allows you to make meal plans for the days ahead but also helps you focus your grocery trip. (Also with a list, you can expect the added bonus of savings of around 20 to 25 percent).

What should your list include?
Heart healthy antioxidant rich foods include: tomatoes, oily fish (such as salmon and sardines), green tea, carrots, sweet potatoes, dark leafy greens, alfalfa sprouts, cocoa (dark chocolate), berries, apples, and whole grains. Studies have shown that those who ate 5 or more servings of fruits and vegetables per day had a 39 percent lower risk of stroke than those who did not.

Blue and purple produce like eggplant, plums, red cabbage and grapes are rich in anthocyanidins which help lower risk of heart attack and stroke by dilating blood vessels; keeping the blood flowing freely.

Included on your list should be foods rich in essential fatty acids like nuts (unsalted), olive oil, hemp seeds, flaxseeds, avocados, salmon, chia or salba, trout, sardines, herring, and mackerel.

Garlic and onions are also important for heart health as they contain compounds that can help reduce cholesterol levels.

Drinking water and staying active is also great for your heart. Purchase a reusable water bottle and refill with filtered water - available in most places - so you can have water on the go, remain hydrated, and save money.

Making conscious choices when shopping or eating out can go a long way. And as always, please consult your physician before making any changes to your diet.

Stroke is the fourth-leading cause of death in the US. About 795,000 Americans will suffer a new or recurrent stroke in 2012, according to the American Stroke Association - about one stroke every 40 seconds.

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Posted by Ken at 12:00 AM - Link to this entry  |  Share this entry  |  Print