Three Tips for Preventing Another Stroke
Having a stroke places you at a greater risk for having another stroke. Fortunately, there are steps you can take today to significantly reduce your chances of suffering a second stroke. We’ll cover three tips for preventing another stroke and we believe should be part of everyone’s stroke rehabilitation toolbag.
According to the Australian Bureau of Statistics, 381,400 Australians reported that they had suffered a stroke in 2009. As it turns out, approximately 80% of these strokes could have been prevented through health and lifestyle changes.
Tip 1. Maintain a healthy diet
Salty and fatty foods are well-known contributors to stroke risks. Choosing fresh fruits and vegetables, foods with low sodium, and foods that are low in cholesterol, trans fats, and saturated fats will go a long way in reducing your chances of suffering a stroke.
Changing what you eat can be a gradual process. Start by planning out a weekly menu and incorporating two to five healthier meals each week. Try to get friends and family members on board for additional support.
Tip 2. Kick the smoking habit
Smoking significantly increases your chances of suffering a stroke. Quitting is easier said than done, but with support from your doctor and others who are trying to kick the habit, you increase your chances for success.
- Never stop trying to quit. One day you may give in to the habit, but remember that tomorrow is a new day. Each cigarette you cut out is bringing you one step closer to your goal of enjoying a healthier lifestyle.
- The Australian Government has the QuitNow website which offers telephone support, apps, and various quit methods and tools for you to apply to your situation. Ready to quit? Check out the website, here.
Tip 3. Increase your physical activity
Exercise of any type is important in maintaining a healthy weight, keeping blood pressure levels in check, and reducing cholesterol levels.
The good news: You don’t need to go and splurge on a costly annual gym membership to keep strokes at bay. As long as you participate in 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity each week (like aquatic exercises, cycling or a brisk walk), you are well on your way to preventing strokes.
Bonus: Exercising will help you say “goodbye” to those cigarettes for good!
Maintain your independence with Occupational Therapy Brisbane
Occupational Therapy Brisbane stroke rehabilitation provides tangible solutions to common stroke survivor lifestyle issues like reduced balance, limited motor function, memory difficulties, and fatigue. We offer a comprehensive stroke rehabilitation program which incorporates rehabilitative technology, driver cognitive screening, and more, to improve your life or the lives of our loved ones or clients.
To find out more about our program and if it is suitable for you or your loved one, we welcome you to call 1300 783 200 or schedule a free 15minute consultation by completing the form below.
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Sources:
Australian Bureau of Statistics
Stroke.org
Centre for Disease Control and Prevention: Healthy Living
Occupational Therapy Brisbane Stroke Rehabilitation
