Foods to reduce stroke risk:
Keeping your brain and heart healthy is very important for a long and active life. One major threat to the brain is a stroke, which occurs when blood flow to part of the brain is blocked. This can affect your ability to speak, move, or think clearly. The good news is that you can reduce your risk of stroke by making healthy food choices.
Health experts suggest eating certain foods every week to support brain function and keep your blood pressure in control. Here are
five common foods you should include in your diet:
Salmon is rich in omega-3 fatty acids which are good for your heart and brain. It helps reduce inflammation, lowers blood pressure, and keeps blood vessels healthy. Just eating three ounces of salmon a few times a week can help provide essential nutrients like vitamins B6 and B12 that are linked to lower stroke risk.
These small beans are full of fiber and plant protein. Chickpeas also contain vitamin B6, which helps reduce homocysteine levels – a substance linked to a higher risk of stroke. You can easily add chickpeas to salads, curries, or soups.
Tofu, soy milk, and other soy-based foods are excellent for heart health. They contain isoflavones that may help relax blood vessels and lower blood pressure. You don’t need to eat only soy, but replacing one meat meal a week with soy can be helpful.
This leafy green is rich in potassium, magnesium, and folate, all of which support blood flow to the brain. A small bowl of cooked spinach daily helps your body produce nitric oxide, which improves blood circulation and reduces stroke risk.
Surprisingly, moderate coffee intake may help lower blood pressure. Coffee contains antioxidants and compounds that improve heart and brain function when consumed in small amounts (1–2 cups per day).
Including these five simple foods in your weekly diet can make a big difference in reducing your risk of stroke and maintaining healthy blood pressure. They are easy to find, budget-friendly, and provide many other health benefits.
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