The South is known as the "Stroke Belt" because of the high incidence of stroke in the region. But there are things you can do to lower your risk for stroke. Follow these 10 tips from Shepherd Center stroke experts.

1. 404-352-2020
Shepherd.org
Top 10 Ways to
Prevent Stroke
If You Live in the South’s
“Stroke Belt”

2. These foods can increase your
cholesterol levels, putting you at
a higher risk of stroke.
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Limit foods that contain trans
fats (fried food, baked goods,
packaged snack food and
margarines).

3. Eat fewer saturated fats, which are found in animal products (fatty meats,
cheese and dairy desserts). These foods can increase your cholesterol levels,
putting you at a higher risk of stroke. Instead, choose low-fat or fat-free milk,
cheese and yogurt.
LIMIT SATURATED FATS

4. Eat heart-healthy foods, such as fresh
fruits, vegetables and high-fiber foods
(oatmeal, oat bran, beans and lentils).
EAT HEART-HEALTHY FOODS

5. Limit sodium in your diet. Sodium
can increase your blood pressure,
putting you at a higher risk for
stroke. The majority of sodium we
consume is in processed and
restaurant foods.
LIMIT SODIUM

6. Limit alcohol consumption
(2 drinks per day for men,
1 drink per day for women).
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7. Maintain a healthy weight.
Being overweight places you
at risk for developing high
blood pressure, heart
problems and diabetes.
All of these conditions increase your
risk of stroke.
MAINTAIN A HEALTHY WEIGHT

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Exercise to increase your heart rate. Good examples
include walking, running, swimming, or playing tennis or
team sport. For adults, the Surgeon General recommends
2.5 hours of moderate-intensity exercise every week.
Children and adolescents should get one hour of physical
activity every day. Obesity and inactivity are associated
with hypertension, diabetes and heart disease.

9. Don’t smoke or allow others to smoke
around you. Cigarette smoking greatly
increases your risk for stroke.
DON’T SMOKE

10. Manage high blood pressure,
high cholesterol and diabetes
by consulting your doctor.
MANAGE HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE

11. Take your medicines exactly as
prescribed. Call your doctor if you
think you are having a problem
with your medications.
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12. For more information on stroke
prevention and stroke
rehabilitation services available at
Shepherd Center, visit:
shepherd.org/stroke
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