Strokes are becoming increasingly common in our society, with fast food, sedentary lifestyles, and processed foods contributing to the alarming statistics. Particularly concerning is the fact that more children and young adults are experiencing strokes due to these unhealthy habits. However, there are simple lifestyle choices you and your family can make to lower your risk of suffering from a stroke.
A Grim Reality
In 2012, the American Stroke Association (ASA) conference painted a grim picture of how strokes are devastating Americans. This rise in stroke cases correlates with the growing obesity epidemic among a largely sedentary population.
The ASA conducted a large, nationwide study analyzing stroke hospitalizations using federal data from hospitals in over 40 states by gender and age. The data covered an astounding 8 million stroke cases per year, comparing the stroke rates of 1994-95 with 2006-07. The results were extremely disheartening, showing a dramatic increase in strokes, particularly among men.
Stroke Results
There are two main kinds of stroke: ischemic and hemorrhagic. In both cases, the brain experiences cell damage resulting from a lack of oxygen and nutrients, which is usually delivered through blood.
Ischemic strokes happen because of arterial plaque buildup, which is linked to the oxidation of LDL (bad) cholesterol. As plaque deposits build along the arterial walls, blood vessels stiffen and lose flexibility. When the supply of blood and nutrients to brain cells is cut off, an ischemic stroke occurs.
On the other hand, hemorrhagic strokes are a result of ruptured blood vessels inside the brain that deprive cells of adequate glucose and oxygen. These strokes can occur due to high blood pressure, weak spots in blood vessels, and head injuries.
Risk Factors
While genetics do play a role in susceptibility to stroke, with people of African, Hispanic, and Native American descent being at higher risk than Caucasians, lifestyle habits are the biggest contributors to your risk of stroke. Pre-existing medical conditions that may put you at additional risk include high blood cholesterol, high blood pressure, heart disease, diseased arteries, obesity, and diabetes.
Smoking and overconsumption of salt, sugar, fat, simple carbohydrates, and alcohol make you more likely to experience a stroke. If you don’t exercise regularly and are constantly stressed, your chances of suffering a stroke are also greater.
Fighting Stroke Risk
To minimize the risk of experiencing a stroke, make sure you incorporate regular physical activity into your schedule, implement stress reduction techniques like meditation and exercise, and consume more fruits and vegetables. Choosing a healthier lifestyle today will have long-lasting benefits for both your physical and mental wellbeing.
The Impact of Unhealthy Diets on Stroke Risk
Parents who feed their children unhealthy diets high in salt, preservatives, fat, and high-fructose corn syrup and low in whole grains, fruits, and vegetables are putting their children at an increased risk for suffering a stroke. Advertising that suggests products like sugary breakfast cereals, processed nutrition bars, and diet sodas are safe and effective is also part of the problem. In fact, research has shown that people who drink diet sodas daily are 49 percent more likely to have a stroke or heart disease than those who abstain from soda altogether.
It is essential that we shift our focus from blaming others to taking responsibility for our own health. By adopting a healthier lifestyle including a balanced diet, regular exercise, and practicing stress relief techniques, you can significantly reduce your risk of stroke. It is just as crucial that we teach our children these healthy habits to ensure their long-term wellbeing.
Make the choice to lead a healthier lifestyle. It may save your life or the lives of those you love. So, start today: put down the fast food and pick up a piece of fruit. Go for a walk outside. And remember, every small change you make today can lead to a healthier and happier future for you and your loved ones.
