Brain cells need a constant supply of fresh oxygen and glucose in order to function properly. A stroke or CVA (or cerebrovascular accident) refers to the condition where a blood clot or a ruptured artery or blood vessels prevents the normal flow of blood to a particular area of the brain. When this happens, the lack of oxygen and glucose causes the brain cells to die and results in brain damage that can affect mechanisms such as movement, speech, and memory.

There are two main types of Strokes: the ischemic stroke and the hemorrhagic stroke. Ischemic strokes account for nearly 75% of the all strokes and are caused when a blood clot blocks the flow of blood to the brain. This blood clot can occur anywhere in the body and break off to become a free-floating embolus. It can then reach the brain via the bloodstream and cause an ischemic stroke. Hemorrhagic strokes are caused due to the rupture of a blood vessel or artery. This can happen due to a number of reasons such as trauma and injury to the head or High Blood Pressure.

Diet for Stroke
A diet for stroke patients emphasizes the intake of fresh fruit, vegetables, lean meats, and whole grains. A healthy balanced meal plan is essential for the healthy blood vessels and a constant supply of vitamins and minerals. These vitamins, minerals, and nutrients fight damage caused by free radicals in the body and improve the oxygenation of tissues and cells necessary for healing and recovery. Some suggestions for a stroke diet are:

-- Include vegetables that are blue or purple in color such as eggplant, grapes, and red cabbage. These contain anthocyanidins that help lower the risk of stroke.
-- A diet high in fruit also increases the level of antioxidants in the body and helps prevent ischemic and hemorrhagic strokes.
-- Studies show that eating carrots at least five times a week can lower your risk of stroke significantly.
-- Avoid foods high in hydrogenated and saturated fats such as red meats, eggs, fried foods and coconut oil. These can raise cholesterol levels and increase plaque build up in the arteries.
-- Foods such as walnuts, spinach, sunflower seeds, chicken, fish, and peas are high in vitamin B6 and can prevent stroke.
-- Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish like salmon and mackerel are healthy options for people who have suffered from stroke. 
-- Foods high in potassium can also lower blood pressure levels and reduce your risk of stroke.

Suggestions for Stroke
-- High blood pressure is the biggest risk factor where stroke is concerned. Regularly check your blood pressure and take the necessary steps to treat high blood pressure if you suffer from it.
-- Get your blood sugar checked regularly as well and keep a control on your diabetes.
-- Reduce your weight through healthy eating habits and exercise.
-- Quit smoking immediately.
-- Keep a check on your cholesterol levels.
-- Control your salt and sodium intake.
-- Reduce your alcohol consumption.
-- Find out if you have atrial fibrillation
-- Manage stress through yoga and meditation