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Top Supplements to Support Stroke Prevention and Recovery
The 7 Stroke-Fighting Super Supplements You Need to Know About
A stroke occurs when blood flow to the brain is disrupted, depriving brain cells of oxygen and nutrients. Each year, nearly 800,000 Americans suffer a new or recurrent stroke. While some risk factors like age cannot be controlled, lifestyle habits and targeted nutrients may play a role in reducing risk. For those recovering from stroke, certain supplements may aid the healing process. This article explores the science behind several supplements that support cardiovascular health and may benefit both prevention of and rehabilitation after a stroke.
1. Omega-3 Fatty Acids for Heart and Brain Health
Omega-3 fatty acids EPA and DHA are considered essential because our bodies cannot produce them. These polyunsaturated fats possess anti-inflammatory properties and have been studied extensively for heart health benefits. One way omega-3s may help is by lowering triglyceride levels in the bloodstream. High triglycerides are a known risk factor for plaque buildup in arteries. Omega-3s may also moderately reduce blood pressure when consumed regularly. Maintaining healthy circulation helps prevent stroke by minimizing clots and artery narrowing. The brain, which is highly vulnerable to inflammation, also contains high amounts of DHA. Ensuring adequate omega-3 intake through supplements, oily fish, or plant sources like walnuts could balance brain and whole-body inflammation levels. Most experts recommend 1-2 grams per day of combined EPA and DHA for heart and brain support.
2. CoQ10 Powers Mitochondria for Energy Production
Coenzyme Q10, or CoQ10, is a fat-soluble, vitamin-like substance synthesized in the body and important for cellular energy production. It plays a vital role within mitochondria, structures in our cells that transform nutrients into energy packets called ATP. A steady supply of ATP powers every function in our bodies. For the heart in particular, continuous energy is needed to contract and pump blood throughout the circulatory system without pause. CoQ10 deficiency has been linked to worse cardiovascular outcomes like hypertension and congestive heart failure. Some research associated higher CoQ10 levels with reduced risk of stroke as well. Supplementing with at least 100 milligrams daily may support heart and overall health.
3. Hawthorn Berry Supports Healthy Circulation
For centuries, hawthorn berry has been consumed as a folk remedy for heart complaints. Modern science confirms that it possesses vasodilating properties, meaning compounds like flavonoids relax blood vessel walls and keep blood pressure and circulation at normal levels. Maintaining healthy blood flow and pressure prevents stroke by reducing plaque buildup and allowing adequate nutrient delivery to tissues. While hawthorn will not lower high blood pressure into a healthy range, it can help maintain already normal levels. Taking 500-1000 milligrams daily near mealtimes infuses the body with hawthorn's circulatory support factors.
4. Magnesium is Vital for Muscle and Nerve Function
As a cofactor in over 300 enzymatic reactions in the body, magnesium plays a role in nerve function, muscle relaxation and blood pressure management. Around half of Americans do not meet the daily recommendations for this mineral which is crucial for cardiovascular health specifically. Low magnesium increases inflammation and constricts blood vessels, elevating stroke risk. It is also involved in energy production and helps regulate blood pressure and heart rhythm. Supplementing with 400-500 milligrams daily through a chelated supplement ensures the body has steady access to this protective mineral. Early research hints magnesium may aid stroke recovery as well, supporting nerve and muscle communication disrupted by damage.
5. Carnitine Transports Fat for Fuel During Recovery
L-carnitine is an amino acid derivative that transports fatty acids into mitochondria, where they undergo beta-oxidation to produce fuel in the form of ATP. As the body's energy demands increase during recovery from illness or injury, carnitine may help regulate calorie usage from fat stores and diet. Some research has found carnitine reduces frequency of anginal chest pain in heart patients by optimizing fatty acid metabolism. For stroke recovery specifically, carnitine’s support of mitochondrial energy production may aid repair of damaged brain cells. Supplementing early in rehabilitation with 1000-2000 milligrams per day could boost calorie usage when growth and repair require extra fuel resources.
6. Vitamin D Important for Overall Health
Several observational studies have linked vitamin D deficiency to an increased risk of stroke in the general population. One analysis of almost 30,000 people found those with the lowest vitamin D levels faced twice the stroke risk as those with higher levels. Beyond bone health, vitamin D receptors reside throughout the body including the brain, heart and blood vessels. This fat-soluble vitamin appears to possess both anti-inflammatory and vascular benefits. It may help manage blood pressure, support heart cell membranes and keep arteries clear and flexible. As deficiencies often go undiagnosed, supplementing 2,000-4,000 IU daily through vitamin D3 ensures optimal heart-supportive levels year-round. For stroke patients, adequate vitamin D status may also aid the healing process.
7. Resveratrol for Heart and Brain Antioxidant Support
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