Along with its many other benefits, drinking sufficient water offers major protection against heart problems, including strokes and heart attacks—even in those who have already experienced a stroke.

Although strokes are more common in the elderly population, stroke prevention can—and should—begin early in life.

The lack of water leads to thickening of the blood, making a stroke all the more likely. Blood is at its thickest in the morning when we wake up, that’s why strokes and heart attacks occur in the morning. Beverages like orange juice and coffee temporarily thicken the blood, so if you must drink something other than water, wait until your hydration has been fully restored.

Water and Stroke Onset/Recovery

A person who feels a stroke coming on should drink water as soon as they begin to feel weak and as they wait for help. Receiving medical attention as quickly as possible is crucial, as damage to brain cells (which are irreplaceable) begins as quickly as four minutes after the beginning of the stroke.

In an attempt to restore oxygen flow to the brain, the body increases the size of the arteries around the area of the blockage. The more hydrated the blood is, the thinner it is, and the easier it can pass oxygen through to the brain. This, combined with your overall state of health, can be the key difference between minimal long-term side effects and permanent in the day.