Japan’s Oldest Doctor: The Morning Habits That Triple Your Stroke Risk After 60

Morning Habit #2: Sitting Too Long After Waking

It’s common to wake up and stay seated in bed, scrolling on your phone or just sitting still for twenty minutes. But for seniors, that stillness can slow blood flow and cause pooling in the legs, making it harder for the heart to recirculate blood.

Dr. Hinohara warns that prolonged sitting immediately after waking can trigger circulation problems, especially in people prone to clots or high blood pressure.

What to do instead:
Before getting out of bed, move your ankles in small circles and flex your toes. When you sit up, gently roll your shoulders and neck, and stand up slowly. These light movements get blood flowing safely to the brain and heart.

Even two minutes of gentle motion can make a big difference in stroke prevention.

Morning Habit #3: Skipping Breakfast