Supplements After Stroke
Vitamin and nutritional supplements can be part of stroke recovery and may help to prevent recurrent strokes. The supplements mentioned in this article are not the only supplements that may aid in stroke recovery and prevention. A doctor can determine a supplement regimen based on a stroke victim's individual needs.
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Stroke
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A stroke is caused by interrupted blood flow to the brain. An ischemic stroke is caused by a blocked blood vessel. A burst and bleeding blood vessel in the brain causes a hemorrhagic stroke. Symptoms of a stroke occur suddenly and may include severe headache, confusion, loss of balance, impaired speech and numbness along one side of the body. Strokes can result in partial paralysis, dementia and death. According to the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS), 25 percent of stroke victims will experience another stroke within five years. Therefore, stroke recovery can involve stroke prevention measures including vitamin and nutritional supplements.
Folic Acid/B Vitamins
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According to the National Stroke Association, high levels of homocysteine may increase the risk of stroke. Homocysteine is an amino acid that is naturally produced within the body. High levels of homocysteine may correspond with low levels of vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid. Homocysteine may be returned to a healthy level with folic acid, as well as vitamin B6 and B12 supplements. According to PureHealthMD.com, vitamins B6, B12 and folic acid may also help to preserve the brain cells of stroke victims.
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Vitamin E
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Vitamin E may be a beneficial supplement for stroke recovery and prevention. According to Holisticonline.com, vitamin E increases the rate at which unhealthy cholesterol, known as LDL, is broken down, and vitamin E may also reduce the risk of developing blood clots that cause ischemic stroke. However, Holisticonline.com warns that a vitamin E supplement may increase a person's risk of hemorrhagic stroke.
Other Supplements
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A variety of other vitamin and nutritional supplements may also be good to take following a stroke. Coenzyme Q10 may help increase blood flow to the brain and help brain cells to produce energy. Vinpocetine may also increase blood flow to the brain as well as improve cognitive functioning, and prevent the formation of blood clots, according to PureHealthMD.com. An acetyl-L-carnitine supplement may help to stimulate brain cell activity in stroke victims.
Warning
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A stroke is a life-threatening medical emergency that needs to be treated quickly by professionals. Vitamins and nutritional supplements should not be substituted for emergency medical care if someone is having a stroke. Consult a doctor before taking any vitamin or nutritional supplement for stroke recovery and prevention. Not all supplements may be healthy for all people. According to the National Stroke Association, "Taking high doses of vitamins is not generally recommended."
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References
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