Stroke
Alternative
and Complementary Medicine for Stroke
Nutritional Supplements for Stroke
Coenzyme Q10 is noted for increasing the flow of oxygenated blood to the brain.
Dosage: Take 30 to 60 milligrams three times daily.
See Also: Benefits of Co Enzyme Q-10 Supplementation
in Cardiovascular Health
Essential Fatty
Acids: The essential fatty acids found in black currant seed, borage, evening primrose, fish, and flaxseed oils have important antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties.
Dosage: Take 500 to 1,000 milligrams two or three times daily.
Note: If you are taking an anticoagulant (blood thinner), take this only under medical supervision. Have your clotting time checked regularly.
Lecithin helps improve the digestion of fats.
Dosage: Take 1,200 milligrams two or three times daily, with meals.
Vitamin C and the
bioflavonoids, especially rutin, strengthen weak blood-vessel walls and help to initiate healing of the arterial system.
Dosage: Take 500 to 1,000 milligrams of vitamin C and an equal amount of mixed bioflavonoids three times daily.
Vitamin E
Several large population studies have demonstrated that blood levels of vitamin E may be better predictors of future stroke than total cholesterol levels. Vitamin E speeds the breakdown of LDL (or "bad") cholesterol while simultaneously increasing the levels of HDL ("good") cholesterol.
Vitamin E is a potent antioxidant that appears to reduce the likelihood of the internal blood clots that trigger ischemic stroke. However, it may increase your risk of hemorrhagic stroke. Consult your doctor before starting Vitamin E therapy.
Dosage: Start by taking 100 international units (IU) daily. After two weeks, gradually increase the dosage until you are taking 200 international units in the morning and another 200 international units in the evening.
Note: If you are taking an anticoagulant (blood thinner), consult your physician before taking supplemental vitamin E.
Vitamin B6 and Folic Acid:
These help prevent homocysteine, a known risk factor for stroke.
Dose:
Vitamin B6 - 300 milligrams/day
Folic acid - 800 micrograms/day.
Note: You should be under the supervision of a qualified health professional when you take therapeutic doses of these supplements.
Related Topic:
Vitamin
Therapy for Cardiovascular health
Vitamin
therapy for Stress Management
Nutrition
Infocenter in Holisticonline.com
Vitamin/Nutrition Therapy for Hypertension
Vitamin/Nutritional Supplements
for Heart Attack
Caution: Nutritional supplements are intended to support recovery from a stroke, rather than to treat an acute episode. If you suspect you may be having a stroke, seek emergency medical treatment immediately. Time is of
essence.
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