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What Should A Person Eat After a Vascular Stroke?

Your diet after a vascular stroke is vital to your recovery and the prevention of future strokes. It is imperative that you eat a varied diet that includes food from all of the important food groups. It is also very important to avoid foods that are high in cholesterol and salt. By eating a proper diet, you will feel so much better.

  1. Fruits, Vegetables, and Whole Grain Foods

    • Your diet needs to be rich in fresh fruits and vegetables because they are low in fat, have very little sodium, and they contain no cholesterol. Cholesterol is a substance that contributes to the narrowing of our arteries and is a leading cause of heart attack and stroke. If you buy canned vegetables and fruits, check the labels to make sure they are low in sodium. High levels of sodium in your diet will put you at a greater risk of having another stroke. When you cook your vegetables, do not heap piles of butter on them. Eat your vegetables plain, add a little salt-free seasoning to them, or stir-fry them with olive oil. Include whole-grain bread products and cereal in your diet daily. Oatmeal and bran cereal are wonderful choices.

    Fats

    • It is extremely important to limit the amount of fat in your diet. Trans fats are the most dangerous because they raise your bad cholesterol level and put you at a greater risk of a recurring stroke or heart attack. You must be careful while shopping because many of the products sold in the stores have these trans fats in them. Companies use trans fats because they make the food look better and last longer, so read your labels. You will find trans fats in french fries, doughnuts, baked goods, cookies, crackers, and many other rich foods. Try using low fat milk and milk products, olive oil instead of vegetable oil, and avoid eating rich foods, for the most part.

    Meats and Fish

    • It is also important to purchase lean cuts of beef and trim all of the fat off your chicken before you cook it. Grilling, baking or slow cooking your meat instead of frying it is the best way to prepare your food. You can do so without using an oil or fat, which is dangerous to your health. Be sure and eat fish at least twice a week. Fish is loaded with protein, which is so important to your body right now. Bake your fish in the oven with a little olive oil and lemon.

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