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Stroke is the third leading killer in the United States, but only one percent of Americans fear falling victim to the disabling or deadly condition, according to a new survey conducted by the American Heart Association. Experts say that increased awareness of stroke's warning signs and modifiable risk factors could save thousands of lives each year. To help reduce your risk, here are two things you can do:
Say "Yes" to Folic Acid
New research shows that diets high in folic acid, also known as folate, can prevent strokes. In a 20-year study, people who ate at least 300 micrograms of folate daily had a 20 percent lower chance of stroke, compared to those who consumed half that amount. The high-folate diets also reduced cardiovascular risk by 13 percent. Good dietary sources of folic acid include spinach and other leafy greens, liver, nuts, fortified grains and cereals, dried beans, oranges, and avocados. Most multivitamins contain at least 300 mcg of the B vitamin.
Check Your Pulse
About two million Americans have atrial fibrillation (AF)--an irregular heartbeat--that, left undiagnosed or untreated, increases the risk of stroke by six times. AF occurs when the upper chambers of the heart beat rapidly and irregularly. This allows blood to accumulate in the heart, increasing the risk of clots which may travel to the brain. About 15 percent of strokes are caused by atrial fibrillation. The National Stroke Association recommends that everyone, especially those age 55 or older, check their pulse once a month (see "Check Your Pulse for Atrial Fibrillation" below).
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