4 Things Many People Do in the Morning That Put Them Closer to a Stroke and Should Be Avoided at All Ages

Many of us have morning routines that include certain habits we consider harmless. However, some everyday actions can unintentionally increase the risk of stroke over time. A stroke occurs when the blood supply to the brain is disrupted, and while there are many factors that contribute to stroke risk, certain morning habits can make it more likely. Here are four things many people do in the morning that could increase their chances of a stroke — and how to avoid them.

1. Waking Up and Suddenly Jumping Out of Bed

Many people tend to wake up and immediately jump out of bed to start their day. However, doing so too quickly can cause a sudden spike in blood pressure, which puts extra strain on the arteries. This can trigger a stroke, especially for those who already have high blood pressure.

How to Avoid: Instead of rushing to get up, take a few moments to stretch and sit on the edge of the bed before standing up. This allows your body to adjust gradually, reducing the chances of a sudden blood pressure spike.

2. Drinking Coffee Immediately After Waking Up

While a cup of coffee can be a pleasant morning ritual, drinking it immediately after waking up can cause a sudden increase in heart rate and blood pressure. The caffeine in coffee is a stimulant that can raise your blood pressure temporarily, which is particularly risky if you already have hypertension.

How to Avoid: Consider drinking a glass of water first to hydrate your body after a night’s rest. Wait a little while before having coffee to give your body time to stabilize. If you have high blood pressure, it's worth considering limiting caffeine intake.

3. Skipping Breakfast

Skipping breakfast might seem like an easy way to save time in the morning, but it can lead to a drop in blood sugar levels, which increases the risk of stroke. Low blood sugar can make the brain more susceptible to damage from any underlying vascular issues.

How to Avoid: Always aim to have a balanced breakfast that includes complex carbohydrates, protein, and healthy fats to keep your blood sugar levels stable throughout the morning.

4. Taking a Hot Shower Immediately After Waking Up

Many people enjoy a hot shower first thing in the morning, but this habit can lead to a sudden drop in blood pressure. The heat from the water dilates the blood vessels, which may lower blood pressure too much, leading to dizziness and even fainting, increasing the risk of stroke.

How to Avoid: Try to use warm, not hot, water in the shower and avoid standing up quickly. Consider starting with a cool or lukewarm shower to gradually bring your body temperature up.

Conclusion

The morning routine sets the tone for the day, and while some habits are seemingly harmless, they can have long-term effects on your health, especially when it comes to stroke risk. Avoiding sudden movements, taking time to hydrate, eating a nutritious breakfast, and being mindful of your shower temperature can all reduce the likelihood of putting undue stress on your body, which ultimately lowers the risk of stroke.

By being more conscious of how we start our day, we can protect our health and reduce the chances of serious health issues, including strokes. Remember, small changes in your routine can make a big difference for your long-term well-being.