By Caitlin Diggins and Ana Ravier
Stroke is among the leading causes of death worldwide, but also of disability, as many people who suffer a stroke survive it. Independence and quality of life post-stroke is greatly dependent on diet and exercise interventions, which both have positive physical and psychosocial effects for post-stroke patients.
The direct impacts of exercise on stroke patients include:
Neuroplasticity: The brain's ability to reorganise itself by forming new neural connections. This process is essential for recovery, enabling other parts of the brain to compensate for damaged areas.
Cardiovascular health: This is important as stroke survivors are at increased risk of heart disease and recurrent strokes.
Cognitive function: memory, attention, and executive function are enhanced by aerobic exercises, in particular, which are beneficial for brain health.
Mood and mental health: Reduction in symptoms of depression and anxiety through the release of endorphins and other neurochemicals that enhance mood.
Evidence clearly supports the use of various kinds of exercise training. Listed below are just some types of training that can be used to improve quality of life.
Aerobic training
Exercise that stresses the cardiovascular system such as walking, cycling or swimming play an important role in improving:
- Cardiovascular fitness,
- Cognitive abilities,
- Walking speed and endurance,
- Balance,
- Quality of life,
- Mobility
Strength training
Enhances motor skills and coordination, crucial for regaining independence. It can improve:
- Muscle strength and endurance,
- Balance,
- Reducing the risk of falls,
- Quality of life
Flexibility training
Exercises that focus on improving joint range of motion can:
- Relieve muscle spasticity problems,
- Improve motor function,
- Improve range of motion,
- Prevent contractures and muscle shortening,
- Decrease spasticity,
- Reduce joint stiffness
Neuromuscular training
Exercises which focus on the body's sense of position and movement, can improve coordination, stability and activities of daily living.
Task-Oriented Training
Focus on practising specific tasks relevant to daily activities, helps to improve functional abilities like standing from a chair. This is also shown to improve quality of life in stroke patients.
Overall, exercise therapy is a crucial component of stroke rehabilitation, promoting physical recovery, cognitive function and emotional well-being. Another important component is nutrition therapy, which plays a vital role in promoting healing, preventing complications, and enhancing quality of life.
The importance of nutrition in stroke recovery
Malnutrition is common among stroke survivors due to factors like dysphagia, reduced appetite, and limited mobility. This can lead to muscle wasting, weakened immunity, and slower recovery. Nutrition therapy addresses these issues by offering personalised dietary interventions to meet the unique needs of each patient.
Nutritional goals in post-stroke rehabilitation
Preventing Malnutrition
A primary goal of nutrition therapy is to prevent or address malnutrition. This involves ensuring adequate intake of calories, protein, and essential nutrients. High-protein diets, enriched with vitamins and minerals, are often recommended to support muscle repair and immune function.
Managing Dysphagia
Many stroke survivors experience dysphagia (ie. difficulty chewing and swallowing), which can lead to aspiration pneumonia if not managed properly. Nutrition therapy includes modifying food textures and consistency to reduce the risk of choking, while still providing adequate nutrition.
Promoting Cardiovascular Health
Since stroke is often associated with cardiovascular disease, a heart-healthy diet is essential in preventing recurrent strokes. A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can help manage blood pressure, cholesterol levels, and overall cardiovascular health.
Supporting Cognitive Function
Nutrients like omega-3 fatty acids, antioxidants, and B vitamins have been shown to support brain health and may aid in cognitive recovery post-stroke. Incorporating these nutrients into the diet can be beneficial for cognitive rehabilitation.
Nutrition therapy is a key component of post-stroke recovery. By addressing malnutrition, managing dysphagia, and promoting cardiovascular health, tailored dietary interventions can significantly enhance recovery and improve long-term outcomes for stroke survivors.
Overall, stroke rehabilitation requires a holistic approach, which is why having a multidisciplinary team around you is so important. Click the button below or contact Balanced Bodies Lifestyle Clinic on 02 8969 6300 or at info@bblifestyleclinic.com.au to build your assistance team post-stroke.
References
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Penna LG, Pinheiro JP, Ramalho SHR, Ribeiro CF. Effects of aerobic physical exercise on neuroplasticity after stroke: systematic review. Arq Neuropsiquiatr. 2021 Sep;79(9):832-843. doi: 10.1590/0004-282X-ANP-2020-0551. PMID: 34669820.
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