How to Design a Diet for Stroke Victims

If a friend or a family member had a stroke, you may be assuming their primary needs in a caregive role. And, food and diet design is a big part of caring for a stroke victim.

Instructions

1

Puree, chop or grind up foods. Because many stroke victims can no longer chew their foods or have weakness in their jaws, they need their food softer.

2

Figure out how much fluid they'll need. In general, divide their weight by 17 to equal the number of 8-ounce cups of fluid they should get a day. Double check with your stroke victim's doctor, as some stroke victims will need more or less fluids. Depending on the severity of the stroke, many stroke victims will need special straws or drinking bottles to ensure they drink enough.

3

Increase protein intake. Protein is extremely important for stroke victims and is in milk, eggs, legumes and meat. If the victim can't have meats or is having problems eating meats, a high protein shake may suffice.

4

Add whole grains to the diet. Whole grains found in breads and cereals can increase fiber and help with healing. In general, your stroke victim should have 6 servings of whole grains a day. Try to avoid processed sugars and flours (white bread).

5

Get them more vegetables and fruits. Everyone should have at least five servings of fruits and vegetables a day. Vegetables and fruits are an important source of vitamins and fiber. Since constipation is common in stroke victims, fiber is increasingly important.

6

Cut back on fats. In general, fats should make up less than 30 percent of their calories and saturated fats should be less than 10 percent.

7

Watch for foods that may interfere with medications. Vitamin K (found in green leafy vegetables), Vitamin E and alcohol may interact with anticoagulants leading to blood clots.