Eight lifestyle changes can significantly reduce stroke risk

Nearly 80% of strokes are preventable, but many people do not know the risk factors. A stroke expert has shared eight lifestyle changes that can help reduce your chances of having a stroke. An estimated 610,000 Americans will have their first stroke this year. Stroke is the fourth leading cause of death in the U.S. and is also a significant cause of disability worldwide. While the risk increases with age, younger adults are also experiencing more strokes. If someone has already had a stroke, their chances of having another one increase significantly. To prevent strokes, the expert, Siobhan Mclernon, suggests the following tips. First, she advises quitting smoking. People who smoke are six times more likely to have a stroke. Smoking damages blood vessels and reduces oxygen levels in the blood. Moreover, secondhand smoke is responsible for over 8,000 stroke deaths each year. Second, it is important to monitor your blood pressure, cholesterol, and blood sugar levels. High levels of any of these can weaken blood vessels and lead to clots. Mclernon recommends regular health check-ups, especially for those over 18, to catch any issues early. Third, maintaining a healthy weight is crucial. Being overweight or obese raises stroke risk significantly. Losing just 5% to 10% of body weight can improve health and lower stroke risk. Fourth, follow a balanced diet. Mclernon recommends the Mediterranean diet, emphasizing fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Foods rich in potassium, like bananas, aid in blood pressure control. Fifth, regular physical activity is essential. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of exercise each week. Exercise can lower the risk of stroke by up to 30% by improving overall health. Sixth, sleep is also important. Poor sleep patterns can lead to high blood pressure. The expert suggests aiming for seven to nine hours of sleep each night for optimal health. By adopting these eight lifestyle changes, people can significantly reduce their risk of stroke and improve their overall health.