Diet plays a crucial role in the recovery process after a stroke. Providing robust nutritional support during the early stages can significantly enhance a patient’s prognosis. It has been observed that a high-energy diet in the first week post-stroke is associated with a higher likelihood of patients being discharged from the hospital to their homes. Moreover, managing weight during the initial phases of stroke recovery is independently linked to improvements in physical function.
To know more about this, ABP Live sought the opinion of experts who explained the kind of diet required while recovering from stroke and that for the prevention of stroke.
Diet While Recovering From Stroke:
Sanchi Tiwari, who is a Nutritionist, at Lord’s Mark Biotech said, “Chronic stroke survivors face a greater risk of developing nutrition-related chronic diseases, including conditions such as sarcopenia, anemia, type 2 diabetes mellitus, and osteoporosis. To combat these risks and promote overall well-being, the Mediterranean diet (MD) stands out as a promising model. This diet is characterized by its emphasis on food diversity, low calorie intake, and a high consumption of fruits, vegetables, legumes, nuts, seeds, grains, and fish. It also encourages relatively lower consumption of meat and dairy. The Mediterranean Diet (MD) has been shown to reduce triglycerides, LDL cholesterol, and both diastolic and systolic blood pressure, contributing to better cardiovascular health.”
“A remarkable dietary approach for stroke recovery is the Mediterranean–DASH Intervention for Neurodegenerative Delay (MIND) diet, which combines elements of the Mediterranean diet and the Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diet. The DASH diet is often recommended for individuals with hypertension and those at risk of cardiovascular and cerebrovascular diseases. The MIND diet not only supports heart health but also enhances brain and nervous system functioning. It plays a vital role in reducing the risk of developing and progressing neurodegenerative diseases,” she went on to say.
“Numerous cohort studies have confirmed the effectiveness of the MIND diet. These studies have shown improvements in cognitive functions, including episodic, working, and semantic memories, as well as perceptual speed and visuospatial ability. In essence, the MIND diet provides a holistic approach to post-stroke recovery, focusing on both physical and cognitive well-being, making it a promising choice for those on the path to rehabilitation,” she added.
Role Of Diet In Prevention Of Stroke
For prevention of stroke and recovery after a stroke, diet plays a crucial role. There are various dietary approaches that work well with stroke prevention as mentioned by Dietician Garima Goyal.
1. DASH diet – This diet is known as ‘dietary approaches to stop hypertension. This dietary approach that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, nuts, seeds and low fat dairy products. This kind of diet stays the best for stroke prevention as it aids in lowering the cholesterol levels and maintaining the blood pressure in normal range.
2. Mediterranean diet – This diet adopted from the Mediterranean region is also like DASH diet that includes food groups such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein and healthy fats like olive oil.
3. Low sodium diet – For prevention of stroke, a low sodium diet stays the best as it helps to lower the risk of hypertension.
4. Low fat diet – This type of diet aids in caloric management and thus helps to deal with obesity, one of the biggest factor of stroke. In such a diet, you have to minimally consume trans fats and saturated fats, a leading cause of atherosclerosis and artery blockage induced stroke.
In addition to her, Dr. Nasli R Ichaporia, who is the Director – Neurology, at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospital, Nagar Road, Pune said, “Given that stroke is a brain ailment caused by the obstruction or rupture of blood arteries, akin to a heart attack but originating in the brain, food plays a critical role in preventing stroke. A balanced diet is essential for lowering the risk of stroke, and here are some key dietary and lifestyle factors to consider.”
- Avoid Fast and Oily Foods: Consumption of fast foods and oily foods should be limited. These types of foods are risk factors for stroke, as they can contribute to the buildup of plaque in the arteries and increase the risk of blockages.
- Vitamin Supplements for Vegetarians: If you follow a vegetarian diet, it’s advisable to take vitamin supplements to ensure you get essential nutrients that may be lacking in your diet. Adequate nutrition is vital for stroke prevention.
- Limit Salt Intake: Reducing salt consumption is important because excess salt can lead to high blood pressure, a major risk factor for stroke. Pay attention to food labels to be aware of hidden sources of salt in processed foods.
- Adopt a Mediterranean Diet: The Mediterranean diet, rich in green leafy vegetables, fruits, fish, and low in red meat, is associated with a lower risk of stroke. This diet emphasizes heart-healthy foods and can help maintain overall health.
- Avoid Unhealthy Lifestyle Habits: In addition to diet, lifestyle choices are crucial for stroke prevention. Avoiding habits such as insufficient sleep, using tobacco products, using other drugs, and excessive alcohol consumption is essential to reduce the risk of stroke.
A healthy diet that includes a variety of nutrient-rich foods and avoids unhealthy choices like fast foods and excessive salt is key to preventing stroke. Additionally, adopting a Mediterranean-style diet and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can further reduce the risk of stroke and its associated conditions.
Best Food Items For Stroke Prevention:
Garima also went on to name the best food items for stroke prevention:
- Salmon – Rich in omega-3 fatty acids, it’s excellent for heart health and brain function.
- Spinach – Packed with vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants, spinach is a superfood that supports overall health.
- Blueberries – These small fruits are high in antioxidants, which can help protect cells from damage.
- Broccoli – A cruciferous vegetable that’s a good source of fiber, vitamins, and minerals.
- Quinoa – A whole grain that’s high in protein and provides a range of nutrients.
- Oats – A great source of fiber, oats can help with weight management and heart health.
- Avocado – Loaded with healthy fats and fiber, avocados are good for the heart and overall well-being.
- Kale – Another nutrient-dense leafy green, kale is rich in vitamins and antioxidants.
- Almonds – Packed with healthy fats, fiber, and protein, almonds are a nutritious snack.
- Turmeric – A spice with anti-inflammatory properties that’s commonly used in Indian cuisine.
These foods are not only nutritious but also versatile and can be incorporated into a wide range of dishes to suit various tastes and dietary preferences.
[Disclaimer: The information provided in the article, including treatment suggestions shared by doctors, is intended for general informational purposes only. It is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.]