For a patient with stroke risk factors, which lifestyle change is recommended?

Maintaining a healthy diet is essential for individuals at risk of stroke because it plays a significant role in managing risk factors such as high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and diabetes. A healthy diet typically includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while reducing the intake of saturated fats, trans fats, sodium, and added sugars. This approach can help improve overall cardiovascular health, support weight management, and lower the likelihood of developing conditions that contribute to stroke risk.

The other options present behaviors that can exacerbate stroke risk. Increasing alcohol consumption can lead to high blood pressure and other negative health impacts, while reducing physical activity can contribute to weight gain and cardiovascular issues. Regular smoking is directly linked to increased stroke risk, as it damages blood vessels and can lead to clot formation. Thus, the recommendation for those with stroke risk factors is to maintain a healthy diet as part of a broader strategy for prevention.