HOW TO AVOID A STROKE
CARDIAC ARRESTS have become a common thing today among adults. Knowing the ways to avoid them is therefore mandatory.
Medical termed as acute myocardial infarction, a cardiac stroke occurs due to thickening and later critical blocking of arteries. This usually occurs due to facts like hereditary predisposition, high blood pressure, diabetes, diet rich in Cholesterol and carbohydrates, sedentary habits, lack of regular exercise, smoking and undue stress.
We can do very little about hereditary factor, but other modifiable risk factors like High Blood Pressure, Diabetes and high Cholesterol can be taken care of by early detection.
An annual check-up, including recording of Blood Pressure, test for urine and blood sugar and estimation of blood lipids level, is recommended after the age of 30. As long as BP, Diabetes and serum lipids are kept in normal range, we can minimize the risk of cardiac stroke.
Regular exercise and balanced diet is important. Excess of homocysteine levels is also responsible for clotting in arteries. Blood should be checked for excessive homocysteine levels. A diet rich in fats and carbohydrates should be avoided. Avoid the use of tobacco in any form and minimize stress.
The American Heart Association recommends the following to avoid a Cardiac Stroke:
DIET:
● Avoid red meat, eggs and dairy products with high fat content.
● Go for skimmed milk and Yoghurt
● Reduce your caffeine intake
● Salt intake should not be more than one teaspoon per day.
● Cholesterol intake per day should be les than 300 mgm/day
● Limit fat intake to 25-30 per cent of total food intake.
● Increase intake of fibre.
EXERCISE:
DOs-
● Calisthenics (Light exercises designed to promote general fitness)
● Aerobics
● Yoga
● Brisk walk
● Swimming
● Tennis
DO NOTs-
● Do not indulge in heavy weight-lifting
● Jogging is not recommended for potential or actual heart patients
LIFESTYLE HABITS:
DOs-
● Use the stairs
● Take a walk daily
● Eat small meals six times a day
● Opt for whole grain bread
DO NOTs-
● Avoid fast food
● Restrain from active and passive smoking
● Avoid excessive alcohols.
