Regular Physical Activity: – Engage in moderate-intensity aerobic activity for at least 150 minutes per week, or vigorous activity for 75 minutes per week. This can include walking, swimming, cycling, or running. – Include muscle-strengthening activities at least two days per week.
Maintain a Healthy Weight: – Being overweight increases your risk of stroke. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise can significantly reduce your risk.
Quit Smoking: – Smoking accelerates clot formation, thickens blood, and increases the amount of plaque buildup in the arteries. Quitting smoking is one of the most powerful lifestyle changes that will reduce the risk of stroke.
Limit Alcohol Consumption: – Excessive alcohol intake increases your risk of stroke. Men should not have more than two drinks per day, and women should not have more than one.
Manage Stress: – Chronic stress and anxiety can lead to behaviors that increase stroke risk. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and regular physical activity can reduce stress.
Regular Medical Checkups: – Regular check-ups can help manage risk factors like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and diabetes. All these conditions can increase the risk of stroke if not managed properly.
Monitor and Manage Existing Health Conditions: – If you have diseases like diabetes, high blood pressure, or cardiovascular disease, effective management of these conditions with the help of healthcare professionals is crucial in preventing a stroke.
Sleep Well: – Ensure you get adequate sleep (7-9 hours per night). Sleep disorders like sleep apnea can increase stroke risk, so treating any sleep disorders is important.