Who knew cutting your risk of stroke could be so convenient?

Design elements: Getty Images.

However, there are steps you’ve got the option to take to reduce that risk.

a photo of a person shopping for canned foods in the grocery store

Photo:Design elements: Getty Images. EatingWell design.

If that sounds complicated, youll be happy to know there are dietitian-approved shortcuts that can help.

And one of those shortcuts is leaning on certain canned foods.

That said, the canned food aisle is a big place!

So, we asked dietitians to share their favorite canned foods to protect against stroke.

Here are their top choices to give your brain the protection it deserves.

Canned Beans

Canned beans are much more than a pantry staple.

They are also a simple way to support your artery health and reduce your risk of stroke.

Swick adds that canned beans are also rich in other nutrients that support cardiovascular health.

To keep sodium to a minimum, look for no-sodium-added or low-sodium canned beans.

If thats not possible, rinsing canned beans before cooking can wash away about 40% of their sodium.

Canned Fish

Canned fish is loaded with nutrients that support heart health and protect your brain from stroke.

Though it may be tempting to toss out the oil from your canned fish, dont!

Griggs explains that the oil is also rich in brain-friendly omega-3 fatty acids.

Artichokes are also an excellent source of potassium, which helps keep blood pressure down, says Griggs.

She recommends chopping them and adding them to sandwiches like ourSpinach-&-Artichoke-Dip Grilled Cheese.

Theyre also delicious in chicken dishes, like thisAntipasto Baked Smothered Chicken.

Canned tomatoes have another nice benefit.

Canned spinach, on the other hand, has a nice, long shelf life.

Canned Beets

Its hard to beat the artery-supportive benefits of beets.

Compared to cooking and peeling fresh beets, canned beets are a huge time-saver.

Sub them in for fresh beets in this tangyBeet Salad with Feta & Dill.

For the biggest benefit, be sure to choose canned varieties with no salt or sugar added.

Then, load up your shopping cart.

Because a few small changes in your cupboard can make a big difference for your brain and cardiovascular health.

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