TOP 13 BEST FOODS FOR STROKE RECOVERY
Knowing the
best foods that help stroke recovery can help you create a diet that is
nutritious for the brain. To guide you, we have compiled a list of foods for
stroke patients that offer many benefits, all backed by clinical evidence.
There are also many fruits on the list because they are a source of
antioxidants and flavonoids, which are good for stroke recovery.
Before we
dive in, it’s worth mentioning that while many foods are helpful, some foods
can make pre-existing conditions like high cholesterol or high blood pressure
worse. Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor or nutritionist before
making any changes to your diet after a stroke.
You want to
find out the best diet and nutrition for stroke patients.
1. Salmon
(EPA)
Omega-3
fatty acids help maintain the level of neurotrophic factor from the brain and
promote neuroplasticity. Oily fish like salmon contain an omega-3 fatty acid
called EPA. Although the body produces EPA itself, increasing EPA can help
during stroke recovery. In fact, it is one of the best vitamins for stroke
patients that can be consumed through your diet.
2. Flax
seeds (alpha-linolenic acid)
Flax seeds
are a good source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is an omega-3 fatty acid
that can only be obtained from food because your body cannot produce ALA on its
own. Recent studies have shown that ALA stimulates neurotrophic factors in the
brain, neuroprotection and neuroplasticity. This is important for stroke
patients who are at high risk of having another stroke.
3. Nuts and
seeds (vitamin E)
Nuts and
seeds are a good source of vitamin E, which is associated with a reduced risk
of cognitive decline and age. Vitamin E is also beneficial for recovery after a
stroke due to its antioxidant properties that protect cells from free radical
damage. Vitamin E also helps improve cognitive function.
4. Avocado
(oleic acid)
Your brain’s
information processing center relies on oleic acid to function at maximum
speed. It is a good food to include in your diet after a stroke, especially if
you have cognitive problems. A food rich in oleic acid is avocado, which is
also a good source of antioxidants. Studies have shown that the unique
antioxidants in avocados can also be effective neuroprotective agents. Try
adding a quarter of an avocado to your sandwich, salad or smoothie.
5. An Eggs
Eggs are a
valuable source of protein for stroke patients. Eggs are soft and can be cooked
in different ways, making it easier for people who have difficulty swallowing
(dysphagia) after a stroke. In addition, eating eggs can help prevent another
stroke, according to research from the Journal of the American College of
Nutrition. In fact, other studies have shown that eating one egg a day can help
reduce the risk of stroke by 12%.
6. Olive oil
Olive oil
helps increase the amount of apolipoprotein in your body, which is a protein in
the blood. This high protein can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Be
careful not to consume too much olive oil just because it contains nutrients
that are beneficial for stroke recovery. But when it’s appropriate, olive oil
can be a good choice as a salad dressing or cooking ingredient.
7. Turkey
Many elderly
stroke survivors have breathing problems that can disrupt sleep at night.
However, turkey is a healthy food choice that promotes sleep and overall
well-being. Turkey is a meat rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that can
increase the production of the sleep-regulating hormone melatonin, which
prevents fatigue and leads to full sleep.
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8. Beans
A stroke can
weaken muscles and make it harder for older people to control their bowels.
Bloating is a common bowel problem, often treated with healthy eating habits,
such as eating beans. Black beans and kidney beans are good sources of fiber,
and they can absorb a lot of water from your loved one’s diet, which helps
control bowel problems.
9. Yogurt
Swallowing
and chewing can be difficult for your loved one during the early stages of
stroke recovery. Therefore, you need to find foods that are easy to eat, such
as yogurt. This dairy product is a good source of protein and can satisfy the
elderly. Yogurt is also rich in vitamins, calcium and zinc that can improve
heart health and reduce the risk of repeated strokes.
10. Oatmeal
Whole grains
such as rolled oats provide soluble fiber to seniors and reduce the risk of
recurrent strokes. Oatmeal is a whole grain that promotes the brain which can
also improve cognition in the elderly and restore many of the abilities they
have lost due to their stroke. To add variety to your loved one’s oatmeal, use
fresh fruits such as strawberries and blueberries.
Recovering
from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease, and other
health-related conditions can make it difficult for an older person to continue
living at home without someone to help them. Amarillo, TX, home care
professionals are trained to help seniors who need assistance 24/7. With the
help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can continue to live a
better life as you age.
11.
Tuna
Biochemical
changes in the brain are one of the main causes of depression, some of the
symptoms include restlessness, fatigue, sadness, and difficulty concentrating.
A healthy diet can naturally treat depression and improve mental and emotional
health. Tuna is a fatty fish that can increase positive endorphins throughout
the body and improve mood. The amino acids in tuna can clear the mind and boost
energy levels.
12. Spinach
Green leafy
vegetables contain nutrients that improve cognition and lower blood pressure.
Eating at least one serving of vegetables a day such as vegetables provides
folate and vitamins K, E, and B, which can improve mental alertness and sharpen
memory.
13. Apple
Apples
contain a soluble fiber called pectin, which can lower cholesterol levels.
Eating a low-cholesterol diet is important during stroke recovery, as it can
prevent plaque build-up and increase circulation. When blood and oxygen flow to
the body and brain, the chances that your loved one can recover from a stroke
can increase.