For this latest medical technology news, let us take a look at the connection between diet sodas and stroke. Then, explore the many stroke prevention options available.
Diet sodas are said to be a healthier alternative to those sugary beverages. However, this low-calorie drink can put you at greater risk of stroke or heart attack.
In a study of health data involving more than 82,000 women in a long-term study of women’s health, 5.1% stated that they downed diet beverages a day. But researchers found that this group had a higher likelihood of developing coronary heart disease that might lead to stroke.
Furthermore, 23% of women drinking more than two artificially sweetened drinks would have a higher risk of strokes. They are also likely to suffer from heart disease. These women are also likely to die from any cause.
Several previous studies also showed a link between diet sodas or beverages and dementia, type 2 diabetes, stroke, and obesity. They can lead to heart disease.
This latest research is a confirmatory study that shows a direct link between vascular risks and sweetened beverages that are artificially flavored. The researchers could not provide causation though. However, it requires careful attention.
Now, many researchers are asking what is the content of these drinks that make them harmful. Is it about the sweeteners? Are they causing harm to our metabolism and gut health? These questions remain unanswered.
However, we do know that they can cause obesity.
In past studies, researchers focused on cardiovascular disease. However, this recent study dealt with the most common type of stroke. The more interesting thing about it is that the researchers looked at the people who are more vulnerable.
The researchers also analyzed the data of women without a history of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. Unfortunately, the data showed that the risks are higher for women who were obese or African-American.
Higher Risk Among Postmenopausal Women
Postmenopausal women are at high risk because of the absence of natural hormones that provide protection against heart disease and stroke.
Health experts point out the possible danger of artificially sweetened drinks for weight loss. Some critics said that low to no-calorie sweeteners are considered safe.
They said that there is substantial evidence showing that these sweeteners could aid people in reducing sugar consumption.
It leads to one question — what is the alternative to diet sodas or beverages?
There are plenty of them. I have listed them below. However, your best option is still water.
1.Fresh Lemonade
It is a classic beverage. It is a common pick-me-up beverage. Having a fresh lemonade in the morning or after working out can hydrate your body.
You can add agave nectar to give it a sweet taste. However, lemonades alone have a citrusy flavor that does not require additional sweetness.
2. Kombucha
It is in the recent health trends in 2019. And it has shown no signs of fizzling out. However, it has a poignant flavor that not everyone would like.
Typically, it has no sugar. Rather, it has probiotics that can promote gut health.
You can find it in grocery stores and health shops. Or you can make it yourself.
3. Sparkling Water
You can add cranberry juice and drink it at lunchtime. It is a low-calorie alternative to diet soda.
4. Maple Water
It is not sugary and not processed. It is taken from the maple tree sap containing 98% water. It has no additives and preservatives. But it does contain little sugar.
Last year, the American Heart Association issued a statement that low-calorie and artificially sweetened beverages could help promote weight loss. But only in adults and not in children.
However, those low-calorie sweetened drinks could be useful in allowing people to transition from drinking sugary beverages to just water.
Because there is solid science behind the connection between consumption of these beverages and adverse health results, it is only prudent to limit your intake.
Scientists are still discovering various connections. However, it is ideal for us to just consume water and other non-calorie beverages. Many individuals now are drinking bottled water. In fact, it surpassed the number of drinkers of carbonated soft drinks.
What Are The Ways To Prevent A Stroke?
There are various things you can do to prevent a stroke.
Lower Or Regulate Blood Pressure
If you are hypertensive, your stroke risk is doubled or quadrupled. It is one of the biggest contributors to stroke risk. Hence, it is vital that you monitor your blood pressure regularly.
If you need medical intervention, you can take blood pressures. However, make sure to consult your physician about it.
Lose Weight
Obesity raises your chances of a stroke. However, before you start to lose weight and achieve better health and wellness, make sure to ask your doctor. In that way, he can give proper weight loss strategy ideal for your situation.
To start losing weight though, you have to consume less than 1,500 calories per day. But the number of daily calories will depend on your activity level. Then, make sure to boost your physical activities.
Try tennis and golfing.
Be Active
In any medical technology news you read, health experts will always recommend increasing your level of exercise.
By exercising more, it promotes weight loss while it lowers blood pressure. Aim to exercise at least five days a week.
There are several videos you can watch to help you boost your exercise level. This is one of the videos that I watch every morning.
In the morning, you can go for a walk around your neighborhood. While performing any exercise, you must aim to achieve a level that it becomes difficult to breathe but you can still talk.
You must also opt to take the stairs rather than an elevator.
Avoid Drinking Alcoholic Beverages
Having one drink a day may slightly reduce your stroke risk. However, if you cannot control your drinking habit, make sure to avoid it completely.
Treat You Atrial Fibrillation
It is a form of irregular heartbeat. It causes clot formation in the heart. The clot can go to the brain, thereby, increasing your chances of a stroke.
This irregular heartbeat is said to increase your risk of stroke five times. Thus, you must take it seriously.
Final Thoughts
In this recent medical technology news, you should consider avoiding sugary beverages, whether they are diet sodas or canned fruit juices.
Instead of consuming them, opt for water and other healthy, low-calorie, non-sugary beverages, like the ones listed above.
