A stroke is a medical emergency that occurs when the blood supply to part of the brain is interrupted or reduced, preventing brain tissue from getting oxygen and nutrients. They can lead to disability, brain damage, and even death.

While certain risk factors for stroke are genetic or out of our control, such as age and family history, many lifestyle factors can increase or decrease our risk. One of the most significant ways to prevent a stroke is through a healthy diet.

Here are 30 foods that can lower your risk of stroke:.

Fruits

1. Blueberries: These berries are high in antioxidants that can protect against inflammation, a major contributor to stroke risk.

2. Citrus fruits: Oranges, grapefruits, and lemons are all high in vitamin C, a powerful antioxidant that can improve blood flow and reduce inflammation.

3. Tomatoes: Tomatoes are high in lycopene, which has been linked to a reduced risk of stroke.

4. Avocado: This fruit is high in healthy fats, which can help reduce cholesterol levels and improve heart health.

5. Pomegranate: Pomegranates are high in antioxidants that can protect against strokes and heart disease.

Vegetables

6. Leafy greens: Kale, spinach, and other leafy greens are high in magnesium, which can help regulate blood pressure and reduce stroke risk.

7. Carrots: Carrots are high in beta-carotene, which has been linked to a lower risk of stroke.

8. Broccoli: Broccoli is high in fiber, which can help reduce cholesterol and blood pressure levels.

9. Garlic: Garlic contains compounds that can improve blood flow and reduce blood pressure, both of which can lower the risk of stroke.

10. Brussels sprouts: Brussels sprouts are high in vitamin C and fiber, both of which can improve heart health and reduce stroke risk.

Whole Grains

11. Oatmeal: Oatmeal is high in fiber, which can help regulate cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of stroke.

12. Brown rice: Brown rice is a whole grain that is high in fiber and can help regulate blood pressure levels.

13. Quinoa: Quinoa is high in protein and fiber, which can help improve heart health and reduce stroke risk.

Nuts and Seeds

14. Walnuts: Walnuts are high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can improve heart health and reduce stroke risk.

15. Flaxseed: Flaxseed is high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve heart health and reduce stroke risk.

16. Chia seeds: Chia seeds are high in fiber and omega-3 fatty acids, which can help improve heart health and reduce stroke risk.

Fatty Fish

17. Salmon: Salmon is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can improve heart health and reduce stroke risk.

18. Tuna: Tuna is a fatty fish that is high in omega-3 fatty acids, which can improve heart health and reduce stroke risk.

Dairy

19. Yogurt: Yogurt is high in calcium and can help regulate blood pressure levels.

20. Cheese: Cheese is high in calcium and can help regulate blood pressure levels.

Legumes

21. Lentils: Lentils are high in fiber and can help regulate blood pressure levels.

22. Chickpeas: Chickpeas are high in fiber and can help regulate blood pressure levels.

Lean Protein

23. Chicken: Chicken is a lean protein that can help improve heart health and reduce stroke risk.

24. Turkey: Turkey is a lean protein that can help improve heart health and reduce stroke risk.

25. Bison: Bison is a lean protein that is high in iron, which can help improve heart health.

Beverages

26. Green tea: Green tea is high in antioxidants that can improve heart health and reduce stroke risk.

27. Water: Staying hydrated is important for heart health and can help reduce stroke risk.

28. Low-fat milk: Low-fat milk is high in calcium and can help regulate blood pressure levels.

Spices

29. Turmeric: Turmeric is a spice that has anti-inflammatory properties and has been linked to a lower risk of stroke.

30. Cinnamon: Cinnamon can help regulate blood sugar levels, which can improve heart health and reduce stroke risk.

30 Foods That Can Lower Your Risk of Stroke