A healthy, enjoyable diet can reduce some of the causes of stroke and help you to recover. Eat plenty of fruit and vegetables (aim for 5 portions per day) and try to include oily fish, such as trout, salmon, sardines and mackerel in meals 3 times a week.
DIET
Try to keep your weight in the middle range – neither too high nor too low.
Keep your alcohol intake within the recommended weekly limits (or as advised by your doctor).
Eating less salt and salty foods will help you to control your blood pressure. Watch out for hidden salt in processed food, even in bread and biscuits.
ALCHOHOL
There are three good reasons for giving up or cutting down. 1. Health – Alcohol is high in calories and can lead to obesity and high blood pressure – common causes of stroke. 2. Daily living – Stroke can cause depression, forgetfulness, shakiness and confusion. Alcohol can make these worse. 3. Medication – Alcohol can be dangerous when you are taking medicine. Check with your doctor. And the good news – a small amount may be good for you, but ask your doctor’s advice and remember: Drink slowly Don’t drink to wind down or deal with problems Drink with food, not on an empty stomach Have alcohol free days – at least two a week. Keep within sensible drinking limits: Women – not more than 2 – 3 units a day Men – not more than 3 – 4 units a day Lower for older people and some medical conditions. 1 unit of alcohol = Half pint of lager, cider or beer or 1 single of spirits or 1 glass of wine.
SMOKING
Smokers are twice as likely to have a stroke as non-smokers. Stopping, or cutting down, will reduce risk. Here are a few tips: Ask family and friends to support you Stay away from places where you will be offered cigarettes Remember the benefits to you and your family (health, money, and no brown ceilings to paint!) Join a stop smoking group Use self-help books – they can help you plan and keep you motivated Ask your doctor about nicotine replacement on prescription, such as chewing gums, sprays and patches All GPs have a specialist nurse who will provide support and treatment as part of a programme.