Strokes occur when there is a blockage or rupture of a blood vessel to the brain. The brain does not receive the oxygen and nutrients it needs when the blood supply is cut off. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke has identified stroke as the leading serious neurological disorder in the United States. To reduce the risk of heart disease and stroke, you must change your lifestyle. Here are a few suggestions.
Smoking is the biggest contributing factor for sudden cardiac death.
Reduce high cholesterol. Studies performed on people age 20 and older indicate that women's cholesterol level is higher than men's from age 55 and up. Maintain a healthy weight and eat a healthful diet. Drink at least eight 8-ounce servings of water each day. Exercising on a regular basis helps control blood cholesterol, obesity and diabetes as well as improve your bone density.