4 ways that alternative medicine can help to prevent cardiovascular disease and stroke

Did you know that stroke has become the third leading cause of death in Canada, and the second leading cause of death globally? It is also a leading cause of adult disability with over 400,000 people in Canada living with the effects of having had a stroke.  

According to a poll commissioned by heart and stroke, less than half of Canadians were aware of their specific risk factors to strokes. Those who were poled recognized poor diet, smoking and lack of exercise as primary contributors to stroke. Only 10% of Canadians recognize high blood pressure as a risk, even though it is one of the most significant risk factors for these conditions. 
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If we are exploring stroke prevention, then one of our primary objectives must be to understand what causes high blood pressure, and how to control it. Known causes high blood pressure include: high salt diet, obesity, age, alcohol consumption, family history, lack of exercise, stress, smoking, and sleep apnea. Although we cannot do anything about our age or family history, there is a lot we can do when it comes to the other risk factors for high blood pressure. 

Here are 4 ways that alternative medicine can help.
Acupuncture – Improves circulation and educes pain, which helps improve quality of life. 
Yoga/ Exercise - Helps increase range of motion, stability, balance, weight loss, improves circulation, and reduces stress.
Massage therapy - Helps reduce pain and stress, and increases range of motion. 
Nutrition - Coaching helps to improve diet, reduce salt intake, and promote weight loss.

Although alternative medicine should not replace the use of doctor prescribed medications or surgeries, using alternative medicine to manage controllable risk factors can be helpful for stroke prevention, cardiovascular disease management and recovery. 

Looking to learn more? Book an appointment with one of our practitioners or reserve a spot in one of our yoga classes!