Stroke and Diet

A stroke is a disruption in the blood supply to the brain. Most strokes are caused by blockages disrupting the brain’s blood supply. These are called ischemic strokes. Some strokes are caused by bleeding. These are called hemorrhagic strokes. Some people have a temporary blockage in the blood supply to their brain which clears of its own accord, quickly and before any lasting damage to the brain is done. This is called a transient ischaemic attack (TIA).

It’s crucial to be aware of the factors that can increase the risk of experiencing a stroke. Some of these factors are beyond our control, but many can be managed with lifestyle changes. Here are some key risk factors:

• Age: As we get older, especially after 55, the risk goes up.
• Gender: Women are slightly more likely to have a stroke than men.
• Hypertension: The most important modifiable risk factor, especially for hemorrhagic stroke. Both systolic and diastolic hypertension are associated with an increased risk.
• Smoking: Cigarette smoking increases risk for ischemic stroke, intracerebral hemorrhage, and subarachnoid hemorrhage.
• Being Overweight: Being overweight raises your risk of hypertension, heart disease and type 2 diabetes. All these things can increase your risk of a stroke.
• Diabetes: Per the American Diabetes Association, individuals with diabetes face a 1.5 times higher risk of experiencing a stroke. Elevated blood glucose levels can lead to more severe complications and a higher likelihood of death, particularly following an ischemic stroke.
• Poor Nutrition:. High-fat, high-sodium diets and a lack of key nutrients such as folic acid have been associated with increased risk for stroke. 
• Not Moving Enough: Engaging in more occupational or recreational physical activity can help reduce the risk of stroke
• Atrial Fibrillation: Untreated atrial fibrillation puts you at a higher risk for stroke and heart failure. People with atrial fibrillation have 3 to 5 times greater risk for ischemic stroke.
• Sickle Cell Anemia: Sickled cells tend to stick together, and they can’t move easily through the blood vessels. This can lead to a clot forming and moving to the brain, causing a stroke.
• Migraines: Especially those with visual disturbances, can increase risk.
• Alcohol and Drug Abuse: Alcohol in excess can increase risk
• Drug abuse: Use of cocaine and amphetamines may result in ischemic or hemorrhagic strokes.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy: Associated with an increased risk of stroke
• Other Conditions: Like heart disease, blood vessel inflammation, high homocysteine levels, and some bleeding disorders can also increase risk.

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