(Sources: The American Heart Association and the Alzheimer’s Association)
African-Americans have a greater chance of suffering a stroke and developing vascular dementia, but it can happen to anyone. To reduce the risk:
· Keep blood pressure in check. Don’t let untreated high blood pressure damage artery walls.
· Maintain a normal body weight. Obesity can increase the risk of diabetes, stroke and other vascular problems.
· Don’t smoke.
· Cut back on foods high in saturated fat and add plenty of whole grains and fresh fruits and vegetables to your plate.
· Get plenty of exercise. Thirty minutes of activity on most days of the week is ideal.
· Take steps to reduce high blood cholesterol.
Leave a comment