A neurologist has warned against three seemingly harmless habits that could increase the risk of a stroke. Dr Baibing Chen, a double board-certified neurologist, shared his advice in a TikTok video that has been viewed over five million times.
The first habit is consuming energy drinks. Dr Chen says he sticks to simple coffee because energy drinks often contain very high caffeine levels, sometimes exceeding the recommended daily limit for adults. They also include stimulants like guarana and taurine, which can disrupt blood vessel regulation and raise the risk of dangerous heart rhythms. These rhythms can lead to clots that travel to the brain and cause a stroke.
The second habit to avoid is lifting heavy weights while holding your breath, a practice known as a ‘heavy lift stroke’. Dr Chen explains that this can cause a massive surge in blood pressure, sometimes exceeding 400 systolic, which can trigger brain bleeds. He advises safer strength training with controlled breathing, exhaling during exertion, and using submaximal weights with higher repetitions.
The third habit involves certain yoga poses that force the neck into extreme hyperextension or hyperflexion. While yoga is generally beneficial, Dr Chen notes that in rare cases these poses can lead to arterial dissection—a tear in the vessel wall—which can cause a stroke. He recommends staying mindful of neck position and avoiding extreme strain.
