Stroke

A stroke occurs when oxygen supply to the brain is stopped, brain tissues begin to die within a matter of minutes, and never redevelop. The magnitude of damage done to the brain depends on the length of the disruption and the time elapsed between the stroke and the time medical attention is received. A large number of strokes are the result of arteriosclerosis an ailment caused by build-up of fatty deposits in the arterial walls which block blood flow. Other conditions which may contribute to an increased risk of a stroke include, genetic risk factors, diabetes, obesity, elevated homocysteine levels, high blood pressure, heart abnormalities (i.e. irregular heartbeat, damaged heart valve) and the use of oral contraceptives and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) prescription medications. + Read more >

People who smoke and eat an unhealthy poor diet are also at risk of developing a stroke. The most prevalent symptoms displayed during a stroke include dizziness, severe headache, blurred vision or blindness, loss of balance, impaired speech, disorientation and paralysis or lack of sensation on one side of the body or face. If you experience any of these symptoms, seek help from a trusted health care professional. There are measures you can take to decrease the risk of a stroke; they include the use of stroke supplements and lifestyle & dietary modifications. A high-quality multivitamin/mineral which contains a variety of antioxidants (i.e. selenium, Vitamin A, E &C is especially effective in minimizing the risk of a stroke. Essential fatty acids found in fish oils reduce inflammation and help lowering cholesterol and triglyceride levels as well. Standardized extract gingko biloba which contains 24% flavone glycoside has antioxidant and blood-thinning properties it also helps with recovery.  However if you are on blood thinning medication you ought to speak to your doctor prior taking the above mentioned  stroke supplements because Vitamin C & E, gingko biloba  and fish oils have the potential to interfere with your medication. Herbs like rosemary and yarrow help to increase circulation and can safely be used as a preventative stroke supplement. The antioxidants found in green tea assist to detoxify the body - look for a green tea supplement, standardized between 80-90% polyphenols and 35-55% epigallocatechin gallate. Garlic supplements (odorless garlic available too) are known to decrease cholesterol levels and increase HDL (good) cholesterol, garlic eaten raw has the same effect however you won’t be able to avoid the treated garlic breath. Coenzyme Q10 acts as a powerful antioxidant known to protect the heart from radical damage and also aids oxygen flow to the brain.  Protecting yourself form a stroke is all about prevention and watching your diet and exercising are just as important as taking stroke supplements. Follow a whole foods alkalizing diet based on healthy whole fruits, vegetables, whole grains, nuts & seeds, legumes, fish. These foods provide with all of the vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, protein, carbohydrates, fibre and essential fatty acids the body needs to stay healthy and perform properly. Foods rich in potassium (i.e., kale, chard, citrus fruits, tomatoes, potatoes) help to reduce blood pressure thereby minimize your risk of a stroke. Avoid any refined and processed foods, they are “dead foods” and don’t contain any nutrients. If you smoke try to quit smoking. Reducing stress and applying effective stress-coping techniques such as meditation, visualization, yoga and other physical exercises you enjoy play an important role in the prevention or recovery from a stroke. Also have a regular check-up at your doctor’s office and have your blood homeocystine levels examined periodically. If you follow these guidelines you will have a good chance to prevent a stroke or even regain your health after having suffered a stroke. Visit Body Energy Club, Canada’s leading online vitamin store and browse through our wide selection of stroke support supplement that can assist you to achieve your health and fitness goals. Before starting any new supplements it is important to check with your doctor to make sure they are right for you, especially if you have a medical condition or are taking prescription medications.+ Read less >