Knowing the best foods that help stroke recovery can help you create a diet that is nutritious for the brain. To guide you, we have compiled a list of foods for stroke patients that offer many benefits, all backed by clinical evidence. There are also many fruits on the list because they are a source of antioxidants and flavonoids, which are good for stroke recovery.
Before we dive in, it's worth mentioning that while many foods are helpful, some foods can make pre-existing conditions like high cholesterol or high blood pressure worse. Therefore, it is important to consult your doctor or nutritionist before making any changes to your diet after a stroke.
You want to find out the best diet and nutrition for stroke patients.
1. Salmon (EPA)
Omega-3 fatty acids help maintain the level of neurotrophic factor from the brain and promote neuroplasticity. Oily fish like salmon contain an omega-3 fatty acid called EPA. Although the body produces EPA itself, increasing EPA can help during stroke recovery. In fact, it is one of the best vitamins for stroke patients that can be consumed through your diet.
2. Flax seeds (alpha-linolenic acid)
Flax seeds are a good source of alpha-linolenic acid (ALA), which is an omega-3 fatty acid that can only be obtained from food because your body cannot produce ALA on its own. Recent studies have shown that ALA stimulates neurotrophic factors in the brain, neuroprotection and neuroplasticity. This is important for stroke patients who are at high risk of having another stroke.
3. Nuts and seeds (vitamin E)
Nuts and seeds are a good source of vitamin E, which is associated with a reduced risk of cognitive decline and age. Vitamin E is also beneficial for recovery after a stroke due to its antioxidant properties that protect cells from free radical damage. Vitamin E also helps improve cognitive function.
4. Avocado (oleic acid)
Your brain's information processing center relies on oleic acid to function at maximum speed. It is a good food to include in your diet after a stroke, especially if you have cognitive problems. A food rich in oleic acid is avocado, which is also a good source of antioxidants. Studies have shown that the unique antioxidants in avocados can also be effective neuroprotective agents. Try adding a quarter of an avocado to your sandwich, salad or smoothie.
5. An Eggs
Eggs are a valuable source of protein for stroke patients. Eggs are soft and can be cooked in different ways, making it easier for people who have difficulty swallowing (dysphagia) after a stroke. In addition, eating eggs can help prevent another stroke, according to research from the Journal of the American College of Nutrition. In fact, other studies have shown that eating one egg a day can help reduce the risk of stroke by 12%.
6. Olive oil
Olive oil helps increase the amount of apolipoprotein in your body, which is a protein in the blood. This high protein can help reduce the risk of heart disease. Be careful not to consume too much olive oil just because it contains nutrients that are beneficial for stroke recovery. But when it's appropriate, olive oil can be a good choice as a salad dressing or cooking ingredient.
7. Turkey
Many elderly stroke survivors have breathing problems that can disrupt sleep at night. However, turkey is a healthy food choice that promotes sleep and overall well-being. Turkey is a meat rich in tryptophan, an amino acid that can increase the production of the sleep-regulating hormone melatonin, which prevents fatigue and leads to full sleep.
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8. Beans
A stroke can weaken muscles and make it harder for older people to control their bowels. Bloating is a common bowel problem, often treated with healthy eating habits, such as eating beans. Black beans and kidney beans are good sources of fiber, and they can absorb a lot of water from your loved one's diet, which helps control bowel problems.
9. Yogurt
Swallowing and chewing can be difficult for your loved one during the early stages of stroke recovery. Therefore, you need to find foods that are easy to eat, such as yogurt. This dairy product is a good source of protein and can satisfy the elderly. Yogurt is also rich in vitamins, calcium and zinc that can improve heart health and reduce the risk of repeated strokes.
10. Oatmeal
Whole grains such as rolled oats provide soluble fiber to seniors and reduce the risk of recurrent strokes. Oatmeal is a whole grain that promotes the brain which can also improve cognition in the elderly and restore many of the abilities they have lost due to their stroke. To add variety to your loved one's oatmeal, use fresh fruits such as strawberries and blueberries.
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11. 
Tuna
Biochemical changes in the brain are one of the main causes of depression, some of the symptoms include restlessness, fatigue, sadness, and difficulty concentrating. A healthy diet can naturally treat depression and improve mental and emotional health. Tuna is a fatty fish that can increase positive endorphins throughout the body and improve mood. The amino acids in tuna can clear the mind and boost energy levels.
12. Spinach
Green leafy vegetables contain nutrients that improve cognition and lower blood pressure. Eating at least one serving of vegetables a day such as vegetables provides folate and vitamins K, E, and B, which can improve mental alertness and sharpen memory.
13. Apple
Apples contain a soluble fiber called pectin, which can lower cholesterol levels. Eating a low-cholesterol diet is important during stroke recovery, as it can prevent plaque build-up and increase circulation. When blood and oxygen flow to the body and brain, the chances that your loved one can recover from a stroke can increase.
