Monitor your loved one’s diet and nutrition after stroke

2021-11-15

Care home

Like many other ailments, stroke is one where post-operative care is as important as timely medical attention itself. A healthy diet is a key in not only helping the body recuperate, but also effectively deal with therapy that is more often a part of the recovery plan. However, patients who have suffered strokes often face challenges like remembering to eat on time, limited mobility, and difficulty chewing.

As caregivers, it is important to understand these issues and look at means to help patients overcome them. Additionally, each patient may have varied medical needs depending on the gravity of their condition. Nevertheless, there are a few nutrition hacks post stroke for seniors that every care provider can keep in mind while tending to these patients. If your loved one needs dedicated post-stroke support, Antara Care Homes is here to provide expert recovery assistance and compassionate care.

Expert Senior Care, Apno Jaisi

Nutrient-rich diet - Ensuring energy-rich diet: Crafting a diet filled with protein and fibre rich foods must be an essential component of post-stroke care. However, the patient’s physical challenges while consuming food must be taken into consideration too. They can also be given supplements that have essential elements like potassium, vitamin B3, antioxidants and omega-3. Before including these supplements in the daily diet, care providers must get a go-ahead from the consulting physician to ensure that the drugs do not interfere with any other medications that may result in mild to serious complications.

Set a rhythm - Avoiding malnutrition post stroke: During these difficult times, your loved ones will find it exhausting to sit through a meal. It is important to train the body and mind of your loved ones, especially in the first few days after the stroke. Setting a routine in terms of the time of the meal, to have them eat in the company of others and not rush through meals, are steps that would help in their overall wellbeing and recovery.

Variety: Monotony is a palette killer. It is important to consume foods that are varied in flavour, while providing essential nutrients. Protein, dairy, fruits, and vegetables are important constituents of a post-stroke diet plan. Choosing a colorful range of foods would also encourage patients to have their meals with minimal fuss.

Trust the Palate: Serve them the food that they find the most appetizing and tasty. You can control quantities and use the right ingredients and recipe in consultation with their physician, but it is important to know that as long as it is tasty, it will encourage your loved ones to try and finish their meals.

Pay attention to other ailments: While concentrating on the right diet post-stroke care, it is extremely essential to keep their pre-existing conditions in mind too. For example, your loved ones are diabetic, you must ensure that the diet consists of lean protein and nutrient-rich foods.

Ensuring that your loved ones get the right care and nutrition after a stroke goes a long way in ensuring their physical and emotional wellbeing. While family members can provide adequate care to these patients, it is wise to opt for care homes that have 24/7 nursing care & attendants. Since strokes are fairly unpredictable, many families will not have facilities in place to provide timely care.

Antara Care Homes help families bridge this gap with their world-class recreational Care Homes. They have medical professionals, nutritionists, and attendees who are trained to respond to medical emergencies. The care homes also provide freshly-prepared nutrient-rich meals that are customized based on each patient’s dietary requirements. Physiotherapists and experienced specialists here are available to craft successful rehabilitation programs. If you are looking for a place that can help you take care of your loved ones after a stroke, our services are just a call away. We have Antara Care Homes in Gurugram and New Delhi.

Talk to us at +91 9811 44 1111 or read our brochure to know more.

Connect with our specialists today to under how Antara can support your family through every step of stroke rehabilitation.

Conclusion

Many of us can be surprised by the role right nutrition can play in stroke recovery. It is the foundation for healing which gives you or your loved ones a long term improvement in your health. As a caregiver your complete attention to the dietary needs of your loved ones can impact their recovery journey and give them a better quality of life.

The nutrition tips in this guide get you ready for different issues like trouble swallowing and keeping a healthy weight.

Keeping an eye on how your loved one eats, making sure they drink enough, and sticking to regular meal times are simple things that can help. If they tell you about swallowing difficulties, or you see abnormal weight changesin them, or they are not eating properly, do not hesitate to consult with doctors immediately.

Frequently Asked Questions

What basic nutrition guidelines should post-stroke patients follow for better recovery?

Focus on a Mediterranean-style diet with plenty of fruits and vegetables (minimum 5 portions daily), whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats like olive oil and fatty fish. Limit sodium intake to less than 2,300mg daily and added sugars to 24-36g. Ensure adequate protein intake to support muscle recovery and maintain regular meal schedules to establish healthy eating patterns.

Which foods should post-stroke patients avoid during recovery?

Some of the foods to be avoided during post stroke care are:

High-sodium processed foods
Excessive added sugars, trans fats
Foods high in saturated fats.
Limit alcohol consumption
Avoid foods that pose choking risks (if swallowing difficulties exist).
If the patient has diabetes you should carefully monitor carbohydrate intake.

Always consult your doctor about food you should avoid (based on medicines and individual health conditions).

How can I assist a stroke patient who has difficulty swallowing or chewing?

Seek immediate evaluation from a speech-language therapist, as dysphagia affects 40-78% of stroke patients. Modify food textures as recommended by doctors - this may include pureed foods, thickened liquids, or soft textures. Ensure proper positioning during meals, allow extra time for eating, and never rush the process. Monitor for signs of choking or aspiration.

How can post-stroke patients manage their weight and maintain proper nutritional status?

Follow regular monitoring of weight (through weekly weigh-ins and quarterly nutritional assessments)
Focus on protein supplements (to maintain muscle mass)
Include vitamin D and antioxidants in the diet.

You can go to a registered dietitian to create personalized meal plans as per your needs, medical conditions and recovery (while preventing malnutrition).