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A stroke, otherwise known as a cardiovascular accident (CVA), can occur when part of an artery in the brain becomes narrow or hardened and eventually clogged, restricting or entirely cutting off blood flow to vital brain cells. Most strokes are a result of cholesterol buildup in narrow arteries which rupture and cause a clot. The same occurrence in vessels of the heart causes a “heart attack”. Risk factors include obesity, high cholesterol, diabetes, high blood pressure and smoking.
The results of a stroke can be devastating, ranging from loss of physical and cognitive function, paralysis and death. Some patients can recover from a mild stroke and go on to live a happy and fully functional life. However, stroke is the third leading cause of death in the U.S. Those individuals who survive a serious stroke are often severely impaired and quality of life is permanently altered.
We don’t have to think long and hard about why strokes are increasing in young people. Just look around you. Obesity is an American epidemic! Our busy lifestyle is a convenient excuse to stop by the drive-through for fast food. Of course, by the time we get home and eat our unhealthy food, stress out over homework with the kids, tidy up the house and attend to our many chores, there is no time left for exercise. To help relax, we often turn to unhealthy alternatives such as alcohol and tobacco. No wonder we are such a mess!
The good news is that your risk factors for stroke can be altered. Eating healthy, getting regular exercise, quitting smoking and keeping weight, blood pressure and glucose levels under control will help reduce the chance of having a stroke. It certainly will take some effort, but it is possible. Sadly, health and prevention are often overlooked in traditional medicine. As medical providers, we are taught in medical school that the “first line therapy” for high blood pressure, type 2 diabetes and patients at high risk for cardiovascular problems is: DIET and EXERCISE, cessation of SMOKING, and elimination of STRESS. We find, however, that patients are not very compliant in following this recommendation, and in most cases pharmacologic intervention is begun. Part of the problem is lack of follow up and reluctance or confusion on the part of the patient to assume responsibility for his or her health.
At True Harmony, we are excited to offer a new program to help you fulfill your healthy lifestyle, and reduce your risk of stroke, cardiac disease and other medical problems. The program is fittingly called “FIRST LINE THERAPY”. Patients who are overweight, have diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or other symptoms ranging from PMS to fatigue can benefit from this program. FLT is monitored by our own physician, and includes meal plans, nutritional support, exercise and activity regimens, and follow up visits to track progress and success. FLT promotes fat loss while supporting healthy energy and muscle production, and balancing healthy insulin and blood sugar. It makes eating healthy affordable and convenient so that anyone can practically implement health eating. This program also provides the support that is needed to make a lifestyle change, plus the expert oversight of a physician.
You CAN help improve your health now and reduce your risk of serious health problems in the future (including stroke).
To read the article from azcentral.com go to http://www.azcentral.com/news/articles/2011/02/10/20110210strokes-rising-among-teens-young-adults.html
To learn more about the program email or call Dr. Grobe ND and Jenna Boettner, Lifestyle Educator at info@trueharmonywellness.com, 480-539-6646.
You may also schedule a simple health assessment appointment to see if you are a candidate for the program.
By: Mary Anne Shostek, PA
True Harmony Wellness
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