Why Weight Changes After A Stroke...

Decreased Activity Levels

After a stroke, daily activity often reduces due to weakness, fatigue, balance issues, or fear of movement. Lower activity slows the metabolism and can contribute to gradual weight gain. At the same time, reduced movement leads to muscle loss, making everyday tasks feel even more challenging.

Muscle Wastage and the Importance of Protein

Muscle naturally breaks down when you are less active, especially if the body is not receiving enough protein. Adequate protein intake is essential for maintaining muscle mass, improving strength, stabilising blood sugar, and supporting overall recovery. Good sources include lean meats, poultry, fish, eggs, dairy, beans, lentils, tofu, and Greek yoghurt.

Risks of High-Sugar and Junk Foods

Many survivors become more sensitive to blood sugar spikes. Diets high in sugary snacks, pastries, fizzy drinks, fast food, and processed carbohydrates can increase the risk of developing type 2 diabetes. A wholefood-based diet, focused on vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, nuts, seeds, and whole grains, supports better blood sugar stability, weight management, and long-term health.

Three Exercise Protocols For Safe Weight Loss After Stroke.

Before starting any exercise, always ensure:

• You have medical clearance

• You avoid pushing through severe pain, dizziness, or chest discomfort

• You have someone present to supervise or assist if needed

• You progress gradually and safely

Below are three scalable exercise approaches depending on mobility level.

1. Seated Exercise Protocol (Low Mobility)

This option is ideal for individuals who use a wheelchair, struggle with standing balance, or tire easily.

Focus areas include:

• Seated resistance band exercises

• Gentle stretching

• Core activation

• Bed-based exercises

• Foot-pedal bike machines

Suggested intensity:

• Resistance bands: 2–3 sets of 10–15 slow, controlled reps

• Core holds: 2–3 sets of 20–30 seconds

• Seated cardio (foot bike): 10–20 minutes at light-to-moderate intensity

• Stretching: 5–10 minutes

Safety notes:

• Use a stable chair with support

• Keep movements controlled

• Stop immediately if you feel light-headed or unstable

2. Limited Mobility Protocol (Moderate Mobility)

Best suited for clients who can stand or walk with some support but still experience balance or strength limitations.

Focus areas include:

• Large muscle group movements (legs, hips, back)

• Light compound movements (such as controlled sit-to-stands)

• Walking or using low-impact cardio machines

Suggested intensity:

• Compound movements: 2–3 sets of 8–12 reps

• Walking: 10–20 minutes at a comfortable pace

• Cardio machines: 5–15 minutes at low resistance

Safety notes:

• Use handrails, bars, or support for balance

• Avoid fast transitions between movements

• Stop if gait becomes unsafe or foot drag increases

3. Higher Mobility Protocol (Very Able Clients)

Designed for individuals who have developed strong mobility and want more challenging, structured training.

Focus areas include:

• Strength training for upper and lower body

• Treadmill walking or very light jogging (if cleared)

• Basic low-impact HIIT-style intervals

Suggested intensity:

• Strength training: 3–4 sets of 6–12 reps

• Treadmill: 15–30 minutes at a steady, safe pace

• HIIT intervals: 20–30 seconds effort with 40–60 seconds rest, repeated 6–10 times

Safety notes:

• Warm up for 5–10 minutes

• Avoid high-impact or fast, unstable movements

• Keep a supervisor present when performing strength or treadmill work

Weight management after a stroke is not about perfection...it's about consistent, safe progress. With a balanced approach that includes proper nutrition, adequate protein, and mobility-appropriate exercise, you can rebuild strength, reduce health risks, and regain control of your recovery.