6 Foods that Can Boost Stroke Recovery

By 9  am on

Which Foods Can Help During Stroke Recovery in Winnipeg, MB

Eating well during the stroke recovery process can help seniors control their weight and blood pressure levels and significantly reduce the risk of a recurrent stroke. Family caregivers need to speak with their loved one’s medical providers to determine which foods to include in their meal plans and which items to avoid. Below are six healthy food options for stroke survivors and the benefits of each choice.

1. Spinach

Diets that contain spinach can strengthen movement following a stroke, allowing seniors to do many tasks and activities independently. When your aging loved one eats spinach and other leafy green vegetables full of antioxidants, he or she can reduce the blockage of blood circulation in the cerebral cortex, increasing muscle strength and various cognitive abilities, such as attention span and short-term memory.
If your senior loved one needs help managing an illness or assistance with daily tasks, make sure you choose a top-rated provider of elderly home care. Winnipeg Home Care Assistance is here to help your loved one live a happier and healthier life in the golden years. From the mentally stimulating activities in our Cognitive Therapeutics Method to our friendly Care Managers who are available to answer your questions 24 hours a day, we offer a wide array of high-quality at-home care services.

2. Tomatoes

The lycopene found in tomatoes can reduce blood clots and lower the risk of a recurrent stroke. Lycopene is a red carotenoid that attacks free radicals. It can also reduce inflammation in the brain and boost immune function. Add tomatoes to your loved one’s meals and snacks, including salads, sandwiches made with whole-grain bread, squash dishes, and soups.

3. Salmon

Fatty fish contain omega-3 fatty acids older adults need to boost their cardiovascular health and reduce the risk of another stroke. Eating at least three servings of salmon each week can lower blood pressure and decrease triglyceride levels, which can slow the growth of fatty deposits that lead to clogged arteries.
Recovering from a stroke, managing the symptoms of Alzheimer’s, and a variety of other health-related situations can make it difficult for a senior to continue living at home without someone there to help. Winnipeg live-in care professionals are trained to help seniors who need 24/7 assistance. With the help of a live-in caregiver, your elderly loved one can maintain a higher quality of life while aging in place.

4. Avocados

The soluble fiber found in avocados regulates the body’s use of sugars and lowers the blood cholesterol levels of senior stroke survivors. Avocados contain fiber, monounsaturated fat, minerals, and vitamins that keep the heart healthy. In addition, the magnesium found in avocados can metabolize the fats and carbohydrates from other foods.

5. Blueberries

Eating this fruit can reduce the brain damage seniors experience after a stroke. Blueberries are rich in antioxidants that protect brain cells. Reducing cell loss can immediately enhance cognition and mobility skills, making daily life easier for seniors and family caregivers. For more variety, add the blueberries to other dishes, such as fruit salads and smoothies.

6. Dark Chocolate

While recovering from a stroke, your parent doesn’t have to avoid eating foods he or she likes, including sweet treats. However, you need to find healthy options, such as treats made with dark chocolate. Eating one serving of dark chocolate per day can increase brain cell growth. The compounds found in this food source repair cells and shield them from further damage. The cocoa powder in dark chocolate can give arterial function a significant boost and lower the risk of a recurrent stroke.
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 homecare 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. Trust Home Care Assistance to provide high-quality compassionate, professional care for your loved one. Call one of our friendly Care Managers today at (204) 489-6000.

Request Free Information or
Schedule a Free in-Home Consultation