Natural Stroke Care

Naturopathic physician Andrew Rubman, ND, medical director of the Southbury Clinic for Traditional Medicine in Southbury, Connecticut, believes that more people could benefit from the use of supplements to help prevent and treat stroke.

In addition to regular visits to a neurologist...a physical and occupational therapy regimen... and anticoagulant medication, the following nutritional supplements may be helpful...

L-carnitine. This amino acid allows the brain to burn fat instead of carbohydrates, which conserves oxygen.

Calcium/magnesium butyrate. This is a single product containing a highly absorbable form of these important minerals. It prevents arteries from going into spasm and causing more brain damage.

Omega-3 fatty acid. This "good" fat helps curb the inflammation that is associated with "mini-strokes," known as transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)-a significant danger for people who experience a stroke for the first time and for people who have recurrent strokes.

B-12 and B-complex. These vitamins help support neurological function.

Before using supplements to help prevent or treat stroke, be sure to consult a naturopathic physician who will work with your neurologist or primary-care physician to create a full treatment regimen.