Did you know that strokes are the third leading cause of death in the United States? We all know about spring cleaning and cleaning out our homes, but have you ever thought about “cleaning” out your eating habits and arteries?
Where to begin may be the question!
First, start by reducing saturated fats and cholesterol in your diet. Cholesterol is found in animal products, such as butter, cream, hard cheeses, and meats.
- Next, reduce sodium by not having salt shaker at the table, and by reading labels for the amount of sodium in frozen and canned foods. Avoid items that have more than 400mg of sodium per serving. Also avoid processed meats which are high in sodium.
- Then, focus on increasing your intake of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Limit meat products to no more than 3 times a week.
- Also, increase your fish intake, especially fatty fishes, like salmon.
- Don’t forget to increase your activity level, whether it’s walking more, or doing something different like ball room dancing or swimming.
- Lastly, the best medicine and advice is to increase your exercise through smiling and laughter. It helps reduce stress and gives joy to you and those around you!
-- From Five Star Senior Living's Corporate Clinical Dieititan Annette Catalfano, RD
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Find out more about preventing strokes and stroke recovery from the
National Stroke Association.
Find a healthy and fun senior living community,
find a Five Star community near you.
