Small choices, big impact: Keeping stroke prevention on the table

As families across Mzansi prepare for another busy week of work, school, and shared meals, the small choices we make at the family table can quietly add up to big health benefits. Coming off the back of World Stroke Day on 29 October, and with exam season, weekend braais and end-of-year festivities filling diaries, Lucky Star is calling on households to make smarter food choices – not just for one day of awareness, but all year round.

Every year, thousands of South Africans experience a stroke, a life-threatening medical emergency that can strike without warning and change lives in an instant. As the second most common cause of death in the country after HIV/AIDS, an estimated 75,000 people fall victim annually, with more than half of these occurring in rural areas¹.

“Food choices matter for families, and oily fish rich in Omega-3s can support heart and brain health as part of a balanced diet²,” says Busisiwe Mkhize, Brand Manager at Lucky Star. “By simply swapping out red or processed meats for oily fish alternatives such as pilchards, sardines or mackerel two or three times per week, families can take a proactive step toward better health.”

Stroke prevention isn’t just about medical awareness days – it’s about creating consistent, sustainable habits that are accessible to all. Oily fish are already a familiar favourite in many South African dishes, from pilchard curry and fish cakes to chakalaka bakes and pap stews. Incorporating these nutrient-rich options into regular weekly meals can make a measurable difference over time, without placing added strain on budgets.

“Pairing awareness of strokes with actions to lower risk is essential,” explains Dr Pamela Naidoo, CEO of the Heart and Stroke Foundation South Africa. “Knowing the FAST signs – Face drooping, Arm weakness, Speech difficulty, and Time to call emergency services – can save lives, whether it’s on World Stroke Day or any other day of the year.”

Lucky Star’s message going forward is simple: prevention starts at home, one plate at a time. The brand is encouraging South Africans to keep the World Stroke Day conversation alive by embracing small, consistent changes that support long-term wellbeing – from recognising the warning signs of stroke to rethinking what goes on the family dinner plate.

“Every minute counts when it comes to a stroke, and every meal counts for better heart and brain health. By making conscious, heart-healthy choices every day, we can help protect the people we love for years to come,” concludes Mkhize.