After receiving immediate medical intervention, stroke survivors commonly need to undergo physical and speech therapy. In addition, the rehabilitation process often involves lifestyle changes, such as adopting a healthy diet. Keep reading to learn about some of the foods healthcare providers recommend for stroke survivors.
Lean Proteins
Protein is essential for the body to use as fuel to ensure healing. However, the only meats in the diet should be lean. Seniors are generally advised to eat skinless chicken, turkey, or other poultry in addition to fish. Herring, mackerel, and salmon are rich sources of omega-3 fatty acids, which are necessary to protect delicate nerve tissue.
Red meat should be limited to two or fewer servings per week. By choosing lean meats, stroke survivors reduce their risk of having elevated levels of LDL cholesterol, which contributes to plaque formations that block blood vessels and may lead to additional strokes. In general, recovering seniors should strive to get at least two servings of protein each day.
Older adults should also consider including walnuts, canola oil, and olive oil in their diets. These substances contain alpha-linolenic and omega-3 fatty acids, which play a role in blood clot prevention.
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Fruits & Vegetables
Produce, both fresh and frozen, contains antioxidants, which interfere with the damaging effects of free radicals. Brightly colored produce contains chemical compounds known as anthocyanidins. Examples of these fruits and vegetables include:
- Berries
- Carrots
- Eggplant
- Grapes
- Tomatoes
- Green and purple leafy vegetables
In addition to protecting cells against the threat of free radicals, antioxidants are helpful in preventing hypertension and reducing inflammation. The compounds also play a role in helping tissues recover faster. Five to seven daily servings of fruits and vegetables contain an abundance of minerals and vitamins the body needs for cells, organs, and systems to function at the best level possible.
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Vitamin B–Rich Foods
Make sure to include produce that provides a rich source of B-complex vitamins. B vitamins protect nerve tissue and are essential for central nervous system function. Folic acid and vitamins B6 and B12 also reduce homocysteine levels. Homocysteine is a byproduct of meat digestion and metabolism. Elevated levels of this substance have been linked to blood clot formation and hardening of the arteries. Vitamin B–rich foods include:
- Chicken
- Eggs
- Herring
- Salmon
- Asparagus
- Broccoli
- Carrots
- Dark green leafy vegetables
- Peas
- Sunflower seeds
- Walnuts
Whole Grains
Barley, buckwheat, oats, and millet are whole grains that are recommended for recovering stroke survivors. These grains are rich in fiber, which aids in maintaining low LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Whole grains also provide a number of nutrients, and they can be easily prepared as a porridge or added to soups and stews for seniors who need softer foods. Stroke survivors should strive to get two to four servings of whole grains each day.
Seniors can face a variety of age-related challenges. Though some families choose to take on the caregiving duties, there may come a time when they need a trusted Clearwater home care service provider. Families sometimes need respite from their duties so they can focus on their other responsibilities, and some seniors need around-the-clock assistance that their families are not able to provide. Home Care Assistance is here to help. Call one of our dedicated Care Managers today at (727) 330-7862 to learn about the high quality of our in-home care services.