Our Maine Street's Aroostook Issue 4 : Spring 2010 | Page 43
© 2009 Gene Cyr, Washburn, northernmainepictures.com
If your diet is poor. A diet high in fat and cholesterol
can raise blood cholesterol levels. A diet high in salt can
raise blood pressure, and eating too many daily calories can
lead to being overweight. Try to eat 5 or more servings of
fruit and vegetables a day. Limit processed foods, salty and
sugary foods. Whole grains, lean meats, fresh fruits and
vegetables are always good choices.
If you are a diabetic. Check your blood sugar and
take your medication for your diabetes as your doctor has
directed. Eat foods that are included in a diabetic diet. Meet
with a dietician if you need help learning about proper food
choices and meal plans. Keeping your blood sugar under
control and eating healthy reduces your risk for stroke.
If you have atrial fibrillation, heart disease, carotid
artery disease (CAD) or peripheral artery disease (PVD).
Take your medication as directed by your doctor. Some
medications are given to prevent clots from forming.
Coumadin or Warfarin may be prescribed for people with
atrial fibrillation and prevent clots from forming which is
important to reduce the risk for stroke. Sometimes aspirin
and other medication may be given to people with heart
disease, CAD or PVD to prevent blood clots from forming.
Never stop taking any medication without discussing it
with your health care provider.
When you take action to reduce your risk for stroke
you also reduce your risk for other diseases like heart disease.
Becoming informed about your health and taking time to
exercise and eat healthy is the key to stroke prevention.
Where can I get more information on stroke?
American Stroke Association – strokeassociation.org
Healthy Maine Partnerships – www.
healthymainepartnerships.org
National Stroke Association – www.stroke.org
National Institute of Neurological Disorders and stroke –
www.ninds.nih.gov/
Sources:
American Stroke Association
Healthy Maine Partnerships
SPRING 2010 County Health 41