Page 94 - LCNL Diwali Magazine 2022
P. 94
RAGHUVANSHI 2022 - 2023 Happy DiwaliHappy Diwali
90
Life’s Simple Seven
Stroke effects more than 100,000 Britons annually claiming 38,000 lives. It is fourth biggest
killer and leading cause of disability. Incidence of stroke is higher in Asian communities
because of higher incidence of Obesity, Diabetes, and hypertension. Genetically Asians are
43% at higher risks of stroke.
There are Seven Healthy Habits you can adopt to halve the risk of suffering a stroke.
1. Maintaining healthy Weight. Obesity increases risk of diabetes, blood pressure and increases
cholesterol. All these will increase the risk of stroke six-fold. Obesity reduces mobility. Weight reduction will lead to
improved diabetes, blood pressure, and cholesterol level control.
2. Control your Blood Sugar. Uncontrolled diabetes will double or quadruple your chances of a stroke. By regularly
monitoring blood sugar levels and taking regular medication will go a long way to achieving good sugar control.
Good diabetic control will help in reduction of cholesterol levels.
3. Control Blood Pressure. Blood pressure control is challenging in obese and diabetic patients. Regular monitoring
of blood pressure will ensure you receive optimal intervention by way of changes in medications. Limiting salt intake
will also make a huge difference in lowering blood pressure. Good blood pressure control will ensure efficient heart
function.
4. Eat Healthy. Diet control play a pivotal role in prevention of stroke. Limit the amount of fat in your diet. Fresh
fruit and vegetables will provide antioxidants for a healthy body and prevent your blood vessels from being clogged
up by cholesterol.
5. Control cholesterol. Cholesterol clogs up the blood vessels in the brain and heart. High cholesterol levels in addition
to diabetes and High blood pressure; which often go hand in hand, is a lethal combination for stroke. It is important
to monitor cholesterol levels and take regular medication to reduce risk of a stroke especially if you have any of the
other risk factors.
6. Stop smoking. Smoking causes lung cancers, strokes and contributes to decline in general wellbeing. It is never too
late to give up smoking. Smoking harms nonsmokers (passive smokers) in a household in a similar way. Stop smoking
or at the very least reduce smoking and avoid smoking in the house or in confined spaces.
7. Exercise more. Exercise at least 120 minutes a week. Brisk walking for 30 minutes will increase your heart rate
and improve heart efficiency. Exercise will aid in reducing blood sugar and weight. It will increase endorphins in the
body and make you feel energetic.
Happy Diwali and a Healthy new year to you all.
Dr Jitendra Kakad