One in five women between 55 and 75 years old suffer a stroke over their lifetime, according to the American Heart Association.
There are two main types of stroke.
During an ischemic stroke, a blockage prevents blood from flowing properly to the brain. In a hemorrhagic stroke, a blood vessel bursts in the brain and causes bleeding that damages brain cells.
Although some risk factors, such as age, race, and family history, cannot be modified, others can be mitigated by healthy lifestyle choices.
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Parag Shah, MD, a cardiologist who practices at Brooks Rehabilitation in Jacksonville, Florida, shared some specific tips on how women can reduce their risk.
Here are five tips.
Parag Shah, MD, a cardiologist who practices at Brooks Rehabilitation in Jacksonville, Florida, shared specific tips on how women can reduce their risk of stroke. (Dr Parag Shah)
1. Avoid air pollution
Research has shown that air pollution tends to have a greater impact on women than men in terms of inflammation, infection and heart disease.
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“According to a recent study, high levels of ambient air pollution – even short-term exposure – can increase the risk of stroke,” said Shah, who specializes in stroke rehabilitation.
“Health experts recommend checking the air quality in your area and, on days with high pollution, limiting time spent outdoors, turning on exhaust fans in kitchens and bathrooms and to use an air purifier in the house,” he also said.
2. Adopt the Mediterranean diet
The Mediterranean diet — a plant-based nutrition plan which mimics the regional cuisines of countries bordering the Mediterranean Sea, such as Italy and Greece, may reduce health risks associated with stroke, according to Shah.
“Current research on stroke prevention explores a range of lifestyle factors,” he told Fox News Digital.
Although some risk factors, such as age, race, and family history, cannot be changed, others can be reduced through healthy lifestyle choices. (iStock)
“This includes the Mediterranean diet, which emphasizes the consumption of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts, olive oil and foods rich in omega-3 fatty acids such as oily fish, walnuts and flaxseeds.
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3. Practice tai chi and yoga
Practice exercises that promote heart health and reducing stress can help reduce the risk of stroke, Shah suggested.
Practicing exercises that promote heart health and reduce stress may help reduce the risk of stroke, a doctor said. (iStock)
“Participating in physical activities such as yoga, tai chi and weight training, while placing importance on mindfulness techniques such as meditation and deep breathing exercises, could provide additional benefits by reducing risk stroke,” he told Fox…
