An important way to lower the risk of a stroke is by controlling your weight. Excess pounds, which strain the circulatory system, can lead to other health conditions like high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, and obstructive sleep apnea. Losing as little as 5–10 percent of your starting weight can lower blood pressure and other stroke risk factors.
Keeping the weight off for good is essential. These tips can help you shed pounds and keep them off:
Move more. Exercise is one obvious way to burn off calories.
Skip the sipped calories. Sodas, lattes, sports drinks, energy drinks, and fruit juices are packed with calories.
Eat more whole foods. Whole foods are full of vitamins, minerals, and fiber and are lower in salt; therefore better for your blood pressure.
Find healthier snacks. Try carrot sticks or air-popped popcorn. Season it with spices instead of butter and salt.
From Harvard Medical School.