Nutrition Post-Stroke

Common Dietary Restrictions After A stroke Diabetic Low calorie Low cholesterol Low salt You may also have restrictions on some foods because of how they interact with medications you could be taking.

After a stroke, calorie needs may go down but nutrient needs stay the same. Making nutrient-dense food choices is important.

Adds nutrients and fiber Examples: small white or sweet potato with skin whole grain bread or brown rice whole grain cereal – for breakfast or snack whole grain pasta or wild rice 1-2 Small Servings of Whole Grains Per Meal

Provide nutrients, antioxidants and disease-fighting properties Ways to include them: smoothies, yogurt and fruit parfaits homemade soups, salads with leafy greens and a variety of vegetables fresh, frozen or canned without salt Get 5 Servings of Fruits and Vegetables Per Day

Fish is easy to chew and easily digested Broiled, baked or pan fried in a small amount of oil Eggs or egg substitutes 2-3 times/week Use daily for omelets, french toast or scrambled Lean beef and pork are good May need to be tenderized or slow cooked For Adequate Protein… 2 Small Servings Per Day

If you choose not to eat meat or have lost your appetite for it: Cottage cheese Peanut Butter Baked or cooked dried beans Meat Substitutes

Low fat milk and yogurt provide calcium, protein and Vitamin D 2-3 servings a day is suggested Soy milk is an excellent substitute Benefits of Dairy or Soy

Consider moving dinner earlier in the day when you have more energy Lunch for breakfast, dinner for mid-day meal and breakfast for dinner Ask you doctor if a glass of wine before your main meal is ok, it may help your appetite Loss of Appetite

Eat fresh and frozen vegetables Don’t add salt Limit single items over 500 mg of sodium Aim for meals less than 800 mg of total sodium Use more herbs and a salt substitute if your potassium level is normal Salt

Tell the wait staff “no added salt or seasoning salt” to your fish or meat Ask for extra lemon wedges, a dash of Worcestershire or hot sauce Bring your own salt substitute Tips for Eating Out

Avoid commercial soups, soy sauce and batter-fried items Split an order with someone Ask for take-home container before meal arrives. Put half in container and eat other half as meal More tips for eating out…

Colorful fruits and vegetables at meals and snacks Fish and Plant Oils, Nuts and Seeds Whole Grains and Legumes Lean fresh meats or meat substitutes Eat More...

Marbled meats and sausage products Deep fat fried foods Salty snacks Sugar-containing beverages Eat Less….