|
|
What
causes a stroke?
A stroke (Cerebrovascular Accident or
CVA) is sudden damage to brain tissue
from a lack of blood supply or rupture
of blood vessels. The damage to the brain
means that signals to the body are impaired.
Motor control may be lost on one side
of the body or face (causing the facial
expression to droop on one side), or the
throat or larynx may be affected, blurring
speech. This damage may only be temporary
depending on the severity of the condition.
Who is at risk?
Dangerous blood clots may originate in
the brain itself or in other 'remote'
organs like the heart. An irregular heartbeat
puts a person at risk, as does diabetes,
inflamed arteries or blood clotting disorders.
How can a stroke be avoided?
Prevention is always better than cure
and a stroke can be the result of long-established
eating and lifestyle habits.
Studies have shown that a potassium-rich
diet helps ward of the threat of hardening
arteries and blood clotting. So plenty
of fresh vegetables and fruit are recommended,
especially bananas, tomatoes and spinach.
Dairy products like butter and cheese
should be taken very sparingly, as should
fatty meat products and other high cholesterol
foods. Steaming is better than frying.
Fresh raw vegetables better still. A high
fibre content may also be beneficial so
bran or porridge and whole grain bread
may be helpful. Alcohol should be taken
in moderation. Gentle exercise helps too.
Research has shown that garlic is an excellent
substance for cleansing the arteries of
accumulated, hardened matter, especially
in older people. If you are not keen on
the taste or smell of garlic, try taking
it in odourless, capsule form.
 |
|
