Food and nutrition

Eating a healthy diet is important in stroke recovery, and in preventing further strokes.

A lack of nutrition can affect your mood, behaviour and brain function. After a stroke, there is a greater risk of poor nutrition due to problems with swallowing. Difficulty swallowing may mean you need to modify the consistency of your food or drinks. Problems with arm and hand movements can make it difficult to use a knife and fork. Problems with memory and thinking can mean people forget to eat. Loss of appetite can be a problem too.

A speech pathologist can assess your swallowing and recommend strategies to help you eat and drink safely. An occupational therapist can help with aids and other strategies to help you get back to eating independently.

A dietitian or nutritionist can review your diet to ensure you are meeting your nutritional needs. They may suggest particular types of nutrient dense foods and drinks, eating more or less food or nutritional supplements such as special powders or drinks.

Eating a healthy diet reduces known stroke risk factors like high cholesterol, high blood pressure and diabetes and is important in preventing further strokes.