Stroke Prevention in Any Season
Physical activity and consistent exercise are among the most important steps you can take to minimize your risk of stroke. Here are tips for maintaining your fitness, no matter the weather conditions.
How can you take preventive steps against one of the leading causes of disability? First, it’s important to know the basics of stroke, including its causes and symptoms. Common risk factors for stroke include hypertension, heart disease and obesity, and the best way to reduce these risks is through consistent physical activity. According to the American Heart Association, physical activity can improve vascular functions, minimizing stroke risk factors. They recommend adults get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or at least 75 minutes of more vigorous physical activity a week.1
A recent study by Columbia University Medical Center found that women who met exercise recommendations by getting enough moderate activity as young adults and throughout adulthood were 38 percent less likely to have a fatal stroke and 12 percent less likely to have any kind of stroke.2
But as the days get shorter and being outdoors becomes less appealing, getting the recommended amount of exercise during the winter months can be challenging. Even the most dedicated fitness regimens can take a hit. Here are a few tips for staying active this winter, even when you’re kept indoors:
- No gym access? No problem! You can utilize a workout DVD, a fitness app or even a YouTube search to do your own workouts at home, even if you have limited space. Whether you use equipment such as weights or resistance bands (or none at all), even just 20 minutes a day can make a difference.1
- Turn your workspace into a workout space. Even your office can become a space for physical activity. Make sure to periodically stand up and walk around throughout the day—not only will you feel refreshed and re-energized, but your risk of various health issues, such as obesity, high blood pressure and depression, may be decreased.3
- Take the stairs. When possible, take the stairs instead of an elevator. This is a simple way to get your heart rate up if you can’t make it to the gym. Even small, gradual changes can help lower your risk of stroke.
As you move toward a healthier lifestyle, annual screenings are another vital step in maintaining your health. Policies like those marketed by Platinum Supplemental Insurance may cover both annual screenings and the financial shortfalls and out-of-pocket expenses that may occur from a covered diagnosis. Put your policy to work in prevention of a diagnosis by scheduling your annual screening today.
Do you want to learn more about a policy you currently own? Call Platinum’s friendly and knowledgeable customer service team at 1-855-637-6550.
1American Heart Association. (2018, April 18). American Heart Association Recommendations for Physical Activity in Adults and Kids. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/fitness/fitness-basics/aha-recs-for-physical-activity-in-adults.
2Rapaport, Lisa. (2017, Sept. 7). More Evidence Links Exercise to Lower Stroke Risk. Reuters. Retrieved from https://www.reuters.com/article/us-health-fitness-stroke/more-evidence-links-exercise-to-lower-stroke-risk-idUSKCN1BI2A5.
33Rieck, Thom. (2018, March 16). 10,000 Steps a Day: Too Low? Too High? Mayo Clinic. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/fitness/in-depth/10000-steps/art-20317391.
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