As surprising as it is true, the proportion of strokes in those ages 20 to 45 nearly doubled from 1993-4 to 2005, from 4.5 percent to 7.3 percent. The average age of stroke victims also dropped from 71.3 to 68.4.  In addition, stroke rates in young white adults more than doubled to 25 per 100,000.

Researchers hypothesize that the increase in strokes in young adults can be attributed to the recent rise in diabetes, obesity and high blood pressure. The experts also urge young people to take proactive steps to fight these conditions early in life. The good news is that these underlying causes may be largely preventable or controllable.

Lowering blood pressure naturally is often comprised of lifestyle changes that may also help fight obesity and diabetes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet and getting plenty of exercise. Here are a few simple things you can do to help protect your overall cardiovascular system (remember to always consult your Doctor before starting any exercise program):

• When you go shopping, park further away from the entrance- you could easily pick up a hundred meters of so of walking distance
• Always use the stairs instead of escalators or elevators
• When you go out to eat, ask if you can order from the seniors menu as the portion sizes are usually more reasonable or see if your friend wants to split a meal
• Make sure you drink a plenty of water and not much soda, energy drinks, specialty coffees, or most  juices as they often contain many more calories than you would expect and they don’t fill you up at all
• Really make a special effort to eat plenty of fruits and vegetables. Because of the natural sugars, most people usually don’t have a problem eating fruit- but vegetables can be a whole other story. So, get creative! Try putting veggies in soups and stews. And don’t forget dishes like fajitas and omelets  can be an excellent opportunity add a variety of veggies.
• Research starting a daily regimen of heart healthy herbal supplements, such as Garlic, CoQ10 and Hawthorn. Do consult your Doctor before starting any supplements, especially if you are on any medications.
• The Zona Plus is a small handheld isometric exercise device that has been shown to improve cardiovascular health/fitness in as little as 15 minutes a day

For more information see “Strokes Up Among the Young, Down Among the Old” by Jennifer Thomas
HealthDay Reporter 2/24/2011. Can be viewed at http://www.businessweek.com/lifestyle/content/healthday/636296.html.