At Aslan Health, we believe in caring for the whole person—body, mind, and spirit. One powerful way to care for your health is through what you put on your plate. While strokes are sometimes sudden and unexpected, many risk factors are within our control. One of the biggest? Nutrition.
What Is a Stroke?
A stroke occurs when the blood supply to part of your brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. Within minutes, brain cells begin to die. It’s a medical emergency—but the good news is that many strokes are preventable through lifestyle changes, especially your diet.
Nutrition: A Key to Prevention
Your daily food choices play a major role in maintaining healthy blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and blood sugar—all of which affect your risk for stroke. Here’s how:
1. Lowering Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is the leading cause of stroke. Diets high in sodium (salt) can elevate blood pressure, while potassium-rich foods (like bananas, spinach, and sweet potatoes) can help lower it. Reducing processed foods and choosing fresh, whole ingredients can make a significant difference.
2. Managing Cholesterol
Foods high in saturated fats (like fatty cuts of meat, butter, and fried foods) can raise your LDL or “bad” cholesterol, leading to clogged arteries. Choosing healthier fats—like those in fish, nuts, seeds, and olive oil—helps protect your heart and brain.
3. Controlling Blood Sugar
People with diabetes are at higher risk for stroke. Eating a balanced diet that avoids sugary drinks and refined carbs (like white bread and sweets) can help stabilize blood sugar and protect blood vessels.
4. Maintaining a Healthy Weight
Obesity increases your stroke risk. Focusing on whole foods—vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains—can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
Faith, Food, and Whole-Person Health
As a faith-based clinic, we believe that your body is a temple of the Holy Spirit (1 Corinthians 6:19-20), and caring for it is an act of worship. Our mission is not just to treat illness, but to help our neighbors live full, vibrant lives for the glory of God.
What You Can Do Today
- Add more color to your plate. Eat a variety of fruits and vegetables every day.
- Read labels. Watch for hidden sodium and added sugars.
- Cook at home. You control the ingredients—and it brings families together.
- Stay hydrated. Choose water over sugary beverages.
- Limit alcohol. Excessive drinking raises blood pressure and stroke risk.
Need Help Getting Started?
Whether you’re managing high blood pressure, diabetes, or just want to make better choices, we’re here to help. Our team at Aslan Health can offer guidance, screenings, and support tailored to your individual health journey.
Together, we can reduce the risk of stroke and build a healthier community—one meal at a time.
Aslan Health — Caring for our Neighbors.
To make an appointment or learn more, visit aslanclinic.com or call us at (320) 297-6800.