HEALTHWISE MAUI

Q: How long does it take to recover from a stroke?

Ca⏶i Saranillio RN, Stroke Program

Manager, Maui Health: The amount of time it takes to recover from a stroke depends on several factors, including the severity of the stroke, the area of the brain affected, and how quickly the person receives treatment.

Many people stay in the hospital for about a week after surviving a stroke. During this time, they will start rehabilitation, undergo tests and observation to determine the extent of their impairment and work out a recovery plan. The patient might be discharged to a rehabilitation facility, or they might go home and complete rehabilitation at an outpatient clinic.

The first three months after a stroke are focused on rehabilitation, and patients usually see the most change and improvement during this time. Rehabilitation can include physical, occupational, speech, and medical

therapy. The goal is to resolve symptoms and restore functioning as much as possible or to help the person learn adaptive strategies to manage daily tasks.

Some patients may fully recover at six months after their stroke. Those still living with symptoms may see their recovery slow down or level off around this time. While some improvement is still possible, after this point, there may be long-term symptoms or disability.

Catching a stroke early and getting treatment as soon as possible significantly improves a person’s chances of surviving and recovering. Warning signs are always sudden, and can include a drooping face, an inability to raise both arms evenly, or speech problems. Call 911 or seek emergency medical help immediately if you notice any of these symptoms.

For more resources for stroke survivors and caregivers, as well as stroke prevention education, visit mauihealth.org/stroke.

Q: What is the best food to eat before and after working out?

Rachael Kent Fria⏶, Regi⏶tered Dietitian Nutritioni⏶t, Maui Health: Food

serves as fuel for our bodies, aiding in overall well-being, mental health, and more.

To optimize your workout, it’s advisable to eat both before and after exercise. Your pre-workout meal and snack provides the energy boost needed to power through your session.

A balanced meal 3-4 hours before a workout is helpful for sustained energy. Consider a plate comprising 50% non-starchy vegetables, 25% lean or plant-based protein, and 25% whole grains or starchy vegetables to ensure adequate nutrition. Avoid overly fatty foods that may significantly slow down digestion.

If you require a snack closer to your workout, such as exercising in the morning, aim for a smaller option to boost blood sugar without feeling too full. About 15-30 grams of carbohydrates, paired with protein, 30 minutes to an hour before exercise, can provide the necessary energy. Dried fruit, a banana, or a protein bar are suitable choices.

Staying hydrated is crucial, especially during intense workouts or in hot weather. Consider drinking unsweetened electrolytes as needed and maintaining adequate hydration

throughout the day to avoid discomfort during exercise.

After your workout, replenish your energy stores with water or a sports drink containing electrolytes. Consume a small snack with protein within 15 minutes to an hour post-exercise, followed by a balanced meal with vegetables, carbohydrates and healthy proteins a few hours later. Be mindful of your body’s needs and signals, consider the intensity and duration of your physical activity, and make necessary adjustments to support your fitness goals.

For more nutrition and health tips, visit mauihealth.org/healthwise.

■ Physicians, providers and administrative staff who practice at Maui Health hospitals and clinics answer questions from the public in Healthwise Maui, which appears on Thursdays. Maui Health operates Maui Memorial Medical Center, Maui Memorial Medical Center Outpatient Clinic, Kula Hospital & Clinic and Lana‘i Community Hospital and accepts all patients. To submit a question, go to the website at mauihealth. org/healthwise.