Stroke & Obesity1

When a stroke happens, a blockage or a break in a blood vessel in your brain prevents blood from flowing where it needs to flow. Your tissues are cut off from the oxygen they need. In the worst case, a stroke can cause paralysis or death. In fact, stroke is the third leading cause of death in the U.S.

It's easier to take steps to prevent a stroke than it is to recover from one. You can lower your chances of having a stroke by taking action. Work with your doctor to set up a plan that includes slow, steady weight loss. Reducing your weight by just 5 to 10 percent can substantially lower your risk of having a stroke.

The most important steps to take include:

1. National Institutes of Health, National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases Web site, accessed September 13, 2011 at