As inactive lifestyles and certain habits are the main causes of stroke, dietary changes can help anyone hoping to reduce their risk of stroke take action towards better health.

Oatmeal – A report shows that eating oatmeal reduces the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as stroke. Individuals who consume oatmeal have lower levels of LDL and triglycerides, a lower ratio of total cholesterol to HDL (good) cholesterol, and lower levels of inflammatory markers. If you have multiple risks for cardiovascular disease, aim to get your LDL cholesterol lower than 100 mg/dl.

Black beans – Diet rich in legumes like black beans lowers the risk of cardiovascular diseases. 

Sweet potato - Sweet potatoes are one of your best for a heart-healthy. One cup of baked sweet potato with skin meets the recommended daily allowance of vitamin A, which helps the heart, lungs, and kidneys function properly.

Low-fat milk - Dairy products are loaded with calcium, magnesium, and potassium. Individuals who consume higher amounts of dairy - especially milk and cheese products have a lower risk of stroke. All these nutrients can help lower blood pressure, so aim to get two or three servings a day.

Banana - Eating more potassium can actually lower blood pressure, even in people with hypertension. And potassium plays an important role in preventing stroke.  Green bananas in particular can help reduce blood pressure.

Spinach - In addition to being packed with magnesium, spinach is loaded with vitamin B folate. A diet rich in folic acid can lower the risk of stroke in people with high blood pressure. Try to get at least 400 micrograms of folate every day.

Almonds – Nuts provide protein, fiber and unsaturated fats. Almonds are also a great source of vitamin E, which could stop plaque from building up in your arteries. This cuts down LDL (bad) cholesterol while upping HDL (good). 

Dark chocolate - While milk chocolate is high in sugar and fats, the high amount of cocoa in dark chocolate has been found to have some powerful stroke-fighting benefits. The secret is flavonoids.