A stroke occurs when the blood flow to the brain stops, causing brain cells to die within minutes. Medical attention is needed immediately to stop the stroke while it is happening by either dissolving the blood clot in the brain or stopping the bleeding. A healthy diet following a stroke aids in recovery to continue performing daily activities.
Selecting Foods After a Stroke
Eating healthy will not only benefit in recovering from a stroke, but also in preventing another stroke. Eat a variety of foods each day to receive different vitamins and minerals, including at least five servings of fruits and vegetables in your diet each day. Consuming a high-fiber diet is essential to the body's absorption of fats and removal of waste.
4-Day Diet for Stroke Victims
The heaviest meal should be consumed in the beginning of the day when your energy levels are the highest. On day 1, for breakfast, start with a cup of low-fat yogurt mixed with blueberries, granola and a teaspoon of honey. Include a fresh fruit juice mixed with 2 teaspoons of ground flaxseed. For lunch, eat tofu with some vegetables and whole grains. Tofu is a good food choice on the first day because it is soft and contains calcium and protein. By the time dinner arrives, energy levels may be low so choose simple and soft foods. For dinner on day 1, choose a peanut butter and jelly sandwich and applesauce. In between meals, eat soft foods such as mashed potatoes, soups and bananas, and drink plenty of water and fresh fruit and/or vegetables juices.
On day 2, for breakfast, eat oatmeal mixed with fresh fruit such as strawberries and bananas. Mix oatmeal with skim milk rather than water for additional nutritional benefits. Drink one glass of fresh juice with two teaspoons of ground flaxseed. At lunchtime, have fish with brown rice and steamed vegetables. For dinner, have tomato soup with whole grain bread and fruit.
By day 3, you may feel more energized and so can consume harder substances. For breakfast, have an omelet or scrambled eggs using egg whites mixed with sauteed vegetables, such as tomatoes, onions, green peppers, and mushrooms. Avoid consuming cheese and dairy that contains a high fat content. For lunch, eat a salad with mixed vegetables and chicken breast. For dinner eat whole grain pasta mixed with fresh vegetables and tomato sauce.
On day 4, you can introduce more solid foods if you are feeling better. For breakfast have cereal with banana or berries on top. If your jaw can handle the chewing, eat an apple with the skin on. For lunch, have a sandwich with hummus, lean chicken or turkey and vegetables. For dinner have fish or tofu with vegetables and whole grains and a cup of fruit.
A well-balanced diet will set you on your way to a speedy recovery and healthful healing.
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