Which lifestyle modification is important for a patient with hypertension and a history of ischemic stroke?

Reducing sodium intake is a crucial lifestyle modification for patients with hypertension and a history of ischemic stroke. High sodium consumption is linked to elevated blood pressure, which can exacerbate cardiovascular conditions and increase the risk of stroke. In patients already managing hypertension, lower sodium intake can help control blood pressure more effectively and might prevent further cardiovascular events, including recurrent strokes.

The recommended guidelines for reducing sodium intake suggest limiting daily sodium to less than 2,300 mg, and further reduction to 1,500 mg may be especially beneficial for individuals with hypertension or those who have experienced a stroke. This modification can lead to improved overall cardiovascular health, making it a vital consideration in the management of these patients.

In contrast, while increasing physical activity levels and enhancing dietary fiber intake are generally beneficial for cardiovascular health, they do not address the immediate concern of sodium-induced hypertension. Increasing alcohol intake can have detrimental effects on blood pressure and overall health in these patients, potentially increasing stroke risk rather than mitigating it. Thus, reducing sodium intake stands out as a fundamental and direct approach for this patient population.