Did you know that daily doses of ginkgo biloba extract can help prevent or reduce brain damage after a stroke? Laboratory tests at Johns Hopkins have shown some truly promising results. Considering that approximately 700,000 people experience a stroke in the United States every year, this is significant news. The vast majority of these strokes, around 87%, are ischemic strokes, which are caused by a blocked artery in the brain.
A closer look at stroke-related brain damage
Brain damage from a stroke can occur in several ways. The most obvious is when blood cannot reach brain cells. But there’s another crucial factor that contributes to this damage: free radicals. Once a clot is cleared and the blood supply returns to the site of an ischemic stroke, there’s an increase in the presence of free radicals, which can seriously damage brain cells.
Based on these laboratory tests, a daily regimen of ginkgo biloba extract might be an effective preventive measure against brain damage for people at high risk of stroke. The lead researcher, Sylvain Doré, Ph.D., believes that the results suggest that there’s some component in ginkgo that actually protects brain cells during a stroke.
The antioxidant powers of ginkgo biloba
It’s not exactly news that ginkgo biloba has long been regarded for its positive effects on the brain. In fact, it’s already prescribed in Europe and Asia as a treatment for memory loss. However, the Johns Hopkins study dives deeper into how ginkgo might work to protect neurons from damage.
The researchers observed that the antioxidants in ginkgo protect brain cells. These powerful antioxidants neutralize the harmful effects of free radicals, thus reducing their dangerous effects on brain cells during a stroke.
Incorporating ginkgo biloba into your daily routine
If you’re considering adding ginkgo biloba extract to your daily routine, there are several easy ways to do so. Ginkgo is available as a supplement in various forms, such as capsules, tablets, and liquid extracts. You might also find ginkgo mixed with other herbal supplements that claim to enhance memory and cognitive function.
Remember to consult your doctor first. It’s important to discuss your health and potential risks with a professional before starting any new supplement regimen. Ginkgo biloba can interact with certain medications, and it’s crucial to ensure the supplement is safe and appropriate for your individual health situation.
Other ways to reduce the risk of stroke
In addition to considering ginkgo biloba extract, there are other lifestyle choices you can make to reduce the risk of stroke. These include:
- Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and low-fat dairy
- Exercising regularly, aiming for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week
- Managing stress through mindfulness techniques, such as meditation or yoga
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Limiting alcohol intake to no more than two drinks per day for men or one drink per day for women
- Not smoking or using tobacco products
- Managing existing health conditions, like high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or diabetes
- Seeking regular check-ups with your doctor to monitor your overall health
Ultimately, adding ginkgo biloba to your daily regimen could be a powerful way to prevent stroke-related brain damage. However, it’s essential to consult with a healthcare professional and consider other, complementary lifestyle changes to ensure the most significant benefits. Adopting a holistic approach to reducing your risk of stroke can help you maintain optimal brain health for many years to come.
