Lower your stroke and diabetes risk by making these changes to your diet
A neurologist has shared his go-to foods for boosting brain health, highlighting how some "simple diet changes" can make a big difference.
In a TikTok video, Doctor Bing explained that these easy adjustments not only support brain function but may also reduce the risk of conditions like stroke and dementia, SurreyLive reports.
"As a neurologist, I often advise my patients on diet modifications to reduce the risk of stroke and dementia," he said.
READ MORE: Five-week warning to people using National Entitlement Card for free bus travel
READ MORE: New DWP Pensions Minister urges 1950s-born WASPI women to claim £4,200 annual income boost
Encouraging everyone to incorporate the three straightforward tips into their daily routines, he added: "What I've learned is that if the recommendations aren’t realistic for someone’s lifestyle or if the changes are too drastic, they’re unlikely to follow through and nothing gets changed. So here are some small steps they can make a big difference overtime."
Do this before you have a snack or meal
The health guru said: "The first is try to eat a handful of nuts before any snacks or meals. I’m talking about five to 10 almonds or walnuts. Nuts have good fats, protein and antioxidants which helps reduce inflammation and protect against a cognitive decline. Plus they help you feel fuller for longer and reduce your cravings."
It also helps "prevent insulin spikes caused by sugary or high carb foods which is good for your metabolic health as well as your brain health."
Remove this drink from your diet
For his second tip, the neurologist suggests making a small but impactful change. He said: "Swapping just one sugary drink or part of a sugary drink a day for water or green tea." Highlighting the high sugar content in many beverages, he emphasized that even a slight reduction can significantly benefit long-term health.
"Drinks like soda or energy drinks are packed with sugar and we all know that’s not good for your body", he said, adding: "Ideally we don’t drink any of that. Even cutting some of that out of your daily life can make a big difference in the long run."
Takeaways
For his final recommendation, the doctor encourages preparing “extra meal at home every week,” emphasising that "cooking at home doesn’t have to be boring."
He urged people to experiment with new recipes and ingredients, noting: "Studies have shown that home meals are typically lower in calories sugar and unhealthy fats compared to restaurants or takeout options.
"The takeaway is if you don’t need to make dramatic changes or pay for expensive meal plans to be healthy." As long as you're "consistent and make small sustainable adjustments that fit into your daily life", you are doing it right, he concludes.
Don't miss the latest news from around Scotland and beyond. Sign up to our daily newsletter.
