The human body requires cholesterol to process hormones, Vitamin D, and digestion. But letting it accumulate in the body can lead to clogged arteries and health issues like heart attack. High blood pressure, diabetes, chest pain, or experiencing pain while walking are signs that show one’s cholesterol levels are too high. One way to maintain healthy cholesterol levels is to eat nutrient-rich food. Here are some superfoods for maintaining a healthy cholesterol level. Types of cholesterol There are mainly two types of cholesterol; LDL and HDL. LDL (low-density lipoprotein) is considered “bad” cholesterol since it clogs the blood vessels with plaque. The HDL (high-density lipoprotein), on the other hand, or the “good” cholesterol, helps carry and eliminate the LDL and regulate bodily functions. One way to ensure the bloodstream has lower levels of harmful LDL is to eat the right foods. Besides food, age can be another factor that can increase one’s cholesterol levels. With age, metabolism slows down, which can impact one’s processing of nutrients. Similarly, a family history of high blood cholesterol can also make one vulnerable to developing the condition. Superfoods to eat to lower cholesterol Oats Being one of the powerhouses of soluble fiber, oats are an excellent breakfast option for those with high cholesterol. Soluble fiber helps to remove cholesterol from the body before it can get absorbed into the bloodstream. Oats are a healthier option than cereals since the latter contains sugar content and artificial flavor. A daily intake of about 10 grams of soluble fiber can reduce LDL levels. A bowl of overnight-soaked oats containing about 4 grams of fiber can also keep one feeling full for longer and avoid overeating. Adding bananas, apples, berries, and other choices of fruits can add to the fiber content. On the other hand, natural sweeteners like honey and dates can make it a delicious and healthy breakfast meal.

GERD, or Gastroesophageal reflux disease, is a chronic acid reflux condition that affects around twenty percent of the population. This condition causes burning discomfort, bloating, or even belching after almost every meal. One of the reasons this acid reflux happens is if the lower esophageal sphincter is weakened or damaged. The best way to manage this disease is to structure a good meal plan to avoid reactions. Here are some best foods to manage GERD. Ginger This has been used as a remedy root for many centuries for various chronic ailments. It has natural anti-inflammatory properties, which help treat complications like heartburn and other gastrointestinal problems. This root is said to have phenolic compounds, known for their ability to relieve gastrointestinal irritation and help reduce gastric contractions that can cause pain. Since it is also an anti-inflammatory herb, it helps reduce inflammation of the esophagus, which causes this acid reflux. You can consume this herb in several ways by adding it to food recipes or tea. Also, be careful not to overuse this ingredient and eat in moderation. Oatmeal A whole-grain breakfast option, oatmeal, is considered excellent for gut health. It is full of fiber which is known for its digestive properties that are essential when dealing with issues related to the gastro. Oatmeal is not just healthy for the but also a heart-healthy option for everyone. It helps absorb stomach acid and reduce the other symptoms of GERD. There are several ways in which you can consume oatmeal, and this can include adding some sweet toppings like some seasonal fruits to your regular boiled oatmeal. Also, this ingredient is generally considered a low-acidic food that can help keep the stomach’s health balanced and maintained. Healthy fats Unlike what most people believe, fats are good for the body. But ensuring you have unsaturated fats in your meals makes it a good meal plan.

Most people who suffer from constipation, occasionally or regularly, may find the condition undeniably uncomfortable. Occasional constipation may occur when waste moves from the digestive system slower than usual, which causes it to build up, turn hard and dry, and make stool difficult to pass. There are multiple prescriptions that can help offer relief. A healthcare expert may also recommend these eight drinks to help relieve constipation in combination with treatments. Prune juice One of the most popular choices to relieve constipation is prune juice. An 8-ounce glass of fruit in liquid form contains close to 3 grams of fiber, which makes up about 10 percent of an individual’s Daily Value (DV). As for its benefits, the fiber content derived from prunes helps bulk up stools. Furthermore, the fruit is also rich in sorbitol, which assists in softening the waste matter, making it easier to pass. Since the juice is best enjoyed in its natural form, one should put about 5-6 pieces of the fruit in a bowl and soak it in a quarter cup of hot water for 30 minutes. After this, they need to blend the contents of the bowl, cool it down, and drink the juice. Apple juice Drinking apple juice may serve as a very gentle laxative for people with constipation. Healthcare experts often recommend the remedy for children because of its high ratio of fructose to glucose and sorbitol content. A medium-sized apple may offer about 5 grams of fiber, which is necessary to bulk up the stool. Apples are also significantly high in water content, which could help hydration. Staying hydrated is essential for better bowel movements. One could use locally sourced, organic apples to make the juice. They could also use juice apples and mix the contents in smoothies. Lemon juice A glass of lemon juice a day isn’t just refreshing but may also aid in relieving constipation.

Cholesterol is a fatty wax-like substance produced by the liver. It is categorized into Low-Density Lipoprotein (LDL), High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL), and Triglycerides. The body needs to maintain low LDL and high HDL levels to support overall health. Any imbalance in these levels can trigger high cholesterol, leading to chronic health complications like heart disease. While there are no direct symptoms, the complications mentioned below point toward high cholesterol in the body. Early signs of increasing cholesterol levels Cholesterol levels build up in the body undetected for a long time and are only noticeable when the buildup triggers health complications. Mild to moderate discomforts observed when the following problems develop are among the early signs of increasing cholesterol levels. Heart disease Cholesterol circulates in the bloodstream, carrying essential vitamins and minerals for cell maintenance. These nutrients also supplement essential functions for various organs. Blood circulation is continuous, so these cholesterol molecules repeatedly pass along the arteries and veins. An increase in bad cholesterol (LDL) causes plaque buildup and triggers blockage. Plaque buildup also results in the narrowing of arteries and veins, thus hindering natural blood flow. Chest pain, extreme fatigue, shortness of breath, and pain radiating in the neck and jaw are early signs of increasing cholesterol levels. These symptoms are indicative of the blockages causing plaque buildup and interrupting circulation. Eventually, plaque buildup increases the risk of coronary artery disease among adults. Stroke and blood clots Blood pressure is a critical function that is regulated by the circulatory system. The heart pumps freshly oxygenated blood from the lungs to all body parts. Adults usually have a normal blood pressure of 130/80 that increases or decreases with the slightest change in physical activity. Here again, plaque buildup due to high levels of bad cholesterol in the body increases the risk of clots and blockages in the arteries.

Joint pain can be a natural consequence of aging, or it could be a symptom of conditions like arthritis and gout. While these diseases usually affect older adults, research suggests a link between excessive sugar intake and the risk of developing joint pain. Further, sugar may worsen symptoms of joint problems. Further, one may be likely to experience pain and stiffness in the joints when dealing with diabetes or high blood sugar. Arthritis and sugar intake According to two long-term studies, female participants who were given more than one sugar-sweetened soda every day had a 63% higher risk of developing deep positive rheumatoid arthritis. However, the conclusions were not solely based on sugar intake, but also determined by other factors like eating a lot of processed food. People with arthritis may experience an increase in joint pain when choosing potentially triggering foods like processed and sugary items.  Signs of joint problems Anecdotal evidence suggests that those dealing with joint pain experience episodes of pain after having sugary foods and beverages. So, high sugar may worsen symptoms of existing joint problems. Here are a few signs one may observe: Pain and mobility issues Over time, unhealthy food choices can lead to multiple health issues, including joint pain. Poor eating habits include high sugar intake, which can lead to an increase in body mass, exerting additional stress on the joints. The pressure usually affects the the joints in knees and ankles, potentially making it difficult for one to carry out everyday activities like walking, standing up, sitting down, running, and jogging. So, it is important to incorporate healthy and sustainable lifestyle changes into the daily routine to avoid complications like joint pain. Swelling and inflammation Research suggests that eating too much sugar triggers excessive production of cytokines—inflammatory proteins. So, with a high intake of sweet foods and beverages, the body is at risk of inflammation, which is one of the causes of joint pain.

Receiving a cancer diagnosis can be a worrisome premise for many. This life-altering condition can make people feel overwhelmed, causing them to shut themselves off from any new information. However, taking an active part in treatment planning can help one achieve better outcomes and reduce side effects. Doctors with special training in diagnosing and treating tumors and cancers are known as oncologists. Here are some questions to ask your oncologist about cancer: About the diagnosis It is important to understand what tests are being conducted to diagnose cancer and how you can prepare for them. Here are some questions to ask at your initial appointment: What diagnostic tests or procedures do I need? How often do they need to be conducted? How can I prepare for these tests? What will these tests tell us? When will I get my results, and how will I receive them? Will I need to repeat any tests if I seek a second opinion? About cancer Upon diagnosis, it’s important to completely understand the type and stage of cancer, as this will help determine your treatment plan. Here are some questions you must ask: What type of cancer do I have? Where is the cancer located? What is the stage of this cancer? What does this mean? How does this stage affect the rest of my body? What are the risk factors during this stage? Do certain genetic factors play a role in increasing the risk of this cancer? Is my immediate family at risk of developing this condition too? What lifestyle changes can I make to improve my quality of life before, during, and after my cancer treatment? About the treatment Once you have a better understanding of the condition, it is time to formulate a treatment plan. Oncologists typically involve patients in this process.

Gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE) are common gastrointestinal disorders that have a significant impact on the daily lives of those affected. Both conditions affect the esophagus, causing discomfort. Here, management of symptoms often involves a few lifestyle changes, including nutrition-based modifications. But these simple changes can also prevent both conditions from worsening. So, this article explores a few foods that can help manage the discomfort associated with GERD and EoE. Understanding GERD and EoE Before discussing the best foods, it’s essential to understand the specific triggers and symptoms of each condition. Gastroesophageal reflux disease develops when stomach acid regularly flows back into the esophagus, leading to irritation and inflammation of the esophageal lining. Its common symptoms include heartburn, regurgitation, chest pain, and persistent cough. On the other hand, eosinophilic esophagitis is characterized by an allergic response in the esophagus, resulting in an excessive buildup of eosinophils, a type of white blood cell. This condition often presents with symptoms such as difficulty swallowing, food impaction, chest pain, and acid reflux-like symptoms. Best foods While avoiding trigger foods is crucial for managing GERD and EoE, it is equally important to choose foods that can help alleviate symptoms and promote esophageal health. Here are the top foods to consider: 1. Ginger Ginger has long been recognized for its digestive benefits. It contains compounds such as gingerol, which have anti-inflammatory and anti-nausea properties. These qualities can be particularly beneficial for those dealing with GERD and EoE. Ginger can be added to daily nutritional regimens in various forms, including as fresh ginger tea or as an ingredient in meals. It can help soothe the esophagus and reduce inflammation, potentially providing relief from symptoms. 2. Oatmeal Oatmeal is a fiber-rich, whole-grain food that can be gentle on the esophagus. It is a great choice for those looking for a healthy eating plan while managing GERD and EoE.

Cleaning the bathroom is an arduous chore most people would rather avoid. Yet, it’s necessary to maintain a hygienic and pleasant living environment. Unfortunately, many people make mistakes when washing the bathroom. These mistakes complicate the job and even reduce cleaning efficiency, increasing the risk of spreading infections and diseases. This comprehensive guide lists these common mistakes and provides a few practical solutions to avoid repeating them in the future. Neglecting regular cleaning Maintaining good hygiene is a continuous task, especially when multiple family members share a washroom. These areas accumulate dirt, grime, and bacteria quickly with repeated use. Failing to sanitize them regularly allows common contaminants to build up, making cleaning more challenging in the long run. The best solution is to follow a cleaning schedule and tackle bathroom cleaning at least once a week. Not ventilating properly Bathrooms should have proper ventilation to prevent gases and odors from accumulating when one uses the facility. Improper ventilation can lead to the growth of mold and mildew, pathogens that thrive in unclean, humid environments. The spores released by these tiny organisms can harm one’s health. Persistent growth can also leave the bathroom surfaces discolored. One should switch on the bathroom fan or open a window after using the facility to prevent moisture and gases from accumulating. It’s also a good idea to leave the bathroom door open briefly to air out the space. Using harsh chemicals Bathroom tiles and fittings are made with materials that are not very resistant to harsh cleaning compounds. While it’s essential to use cleaning products to maintain hygiene, harsh solutions can erode surfaces and release fumes that pose health risks. Common mistakes include using bleach on colored grout or mixing different cleaning products. It’s better to opt for a mild, eco-friendly cleaner that is safe for regular use.

There are over 1.46 billion active iPhone users worldwide as of 2023, making it one of the most popular brands in the smartphone market. While the iPhone may be great, some unknowingly develop bad habits when using it, which affect the gadget’s overall performance, reduce its lifespan, and lead to unnecessary repair costs in the long run. Experts recommend breaking these habits today to keep the iPhone in top condition. Neglecting software updates One of the biggest mistakes is delaying or ignoring software updates. Many users think it is unnecessary to download and install updates on iPhones because they are known for providing good security out of the box. However, not performing this task can leave the device vulnerable to security threats and lead to compatibility issues with apps and services. Updates often contain essential security patches, bug fixes, and performance improvements. If someone finds it inconvenient to check for updates regularly, they can visit the Settings app on the iPhone and enable “Download iOS Updates” under the “Software Update” section. This handy feature downloads and installs updates automatically at a suitable time. Not backing up regularly Some users forget to back up the iPhone regularly or avoid it deliberately because it is time-consuming. Remember, a single crash or malware attack can result in significant data loss. The same can also happen if the device malfunctions, gets stolen, or someone clicks the wrong buttons. iPhone users risk losing photos, messages, contacts, and app data without regular backups. A simple solution here is to enable iCloud Backup or use iTunes/Finder to create regular backups of the internal storage. Always ensure the data is safe and can be restored if needed. Using unauthorized accessories Apple strictly advises against using unauthorized accessories to protect the hardware. Despite that, some opt for cheap, unauthorized chargers and cables to save money.

The eyes help one perceive different stimuli. Therefore, promptly diagnosing eye-related conditions is essential to ensure eye health. Age-related Macular Degeneration (AMD) is a progressive eye condition involving damage to the macula or a part of the retina situated at the back of the eye. Individuals aged 50 and above are particularly susceptible to this condition. This article discusses a few early warning signs of AMD that one shouldn’t ignore. Early warning signs of age-related macular degeneration In general, age-related macular degeneration is classified as dry and wet. Dry AMD involves gradual thinning of the retina caused by age and is characterized by symptoms like blurred vision and progressive vision loss. Wet AMD, considered a more serious condition than dry AMD, results from irregular growth of blood vessels in the retina, causing accumulation of fluid in the back of the eye. Dry AMD may gradually progress to wet AMD with time, particularly if left untreated. Some early warning signs of AMD are as follows: 1. Blurred vision Since AMD involves blood or fluid leakage from blood vessels into the macula, individuals with this disease may experience blurry vision. 2. Wavy appearance of straight lines Age-related macular degeneration significantly affects one’s central vision, which is indispensable in facilitating the recognition of shapes, lines, colors, etc. Consequently, patients with AMD may perceive straight lines as curved or wavy. 3. Problems with recognizing familiar faces As mentioned earlier, AMD hampers one’s central vision, which is also responsible for face recognition. Hence, patients with AMD often find it difficult to recognize familiar people—even their close family members and friends. 4. Issues with sleep Some studies have found an association between the prevalence of AMD and increased rates of sleep issues, such as sleep apnea, insomnia, and generally poorer sleep quality than individuals without the condition.

You can find a wide array of feature-rich smartwatches, but these gadgets can be expensive, especially ones that come with advanced functions. Smartwatches are fascinating gadgets that have become increasingly popular due to their cutting-edge sensors that can help you monitor your health. So, for this shopping season, here are the best smartwatch deals that you should check out during Black Friday sales. These offers might be rolled out soon based on past trends. Amazfit GTR 2 The Amazfit GTR 2 model is an incredibly powerful, capable, and functional smartwatch and could be available for $129.99. This makes it an affordable gift this holiday season. The watch comes with Amazon Alexa, blood oxygen monitoring, sleep tracking, music storage, and other features. Fitbit Versa 2 You can find the Fitbit Versa 2 at Best Buy for $119.95, i.e., you get $60 off on the purchase. With this gadget, you get a smartwatch that tracks your workouts, measures your sleep, has an always-on display, 24/7 heart rate monitoring, and is even water resistant up to 50 meters. Samsung Galaxy Watch4 Shoppers get to choose from two designs, two sizes, and two LTE options for the Samsung Galaxy Watch4. All versions could be offered at $50 less, with prices ranging from $199.99 for the Watch4 size 40 mm to $329.99 for the Watch4 Classic size 46mm. Garmin Forerunner 4 This is the perfect device if you enjoy running, hiking, or other outdoor activities. Information is always simple to access when you are on the go, thanks to Garmin Forerunner 4’s huge digital display. The watch can track your daily activity levels, including steps taken, distance traveled, calories burned, stress levels during the day, and even how well you sleep. Apple Watch SE For most users, the Apple Watch SE is the best smartwatch model from the brand.

Truck drivers typically face several ordeals, from long shift hours to extended periods away from one’s home and loved ones. According to statistical data, truck accidents account for 6.5% of all crashes in the country. Most of these accidents are triggered by rookie mistakes on the road, which culminate in injuries and fatalities. Understanding the common mistakes truck drivers make can help increase overall road safety. This article lists some common rookie mistakes: Driving in a state of sleep deprivation According to the National Transportation Safety Board, 13% of all truck accidents involving the death of the truck driver were caused due to the driver being sleep deprived. Moreover, in another study, 19% of drivers reported falling asleep at the steering wheel at least once during the month. Such staggering statistical figures suggest that truck drivers grappling with sleep deprivation is a significant issue. It is important to ensure that truck drivers are well-rested and have slept for at least seven hours before they begin their journeys. Moreover, they must not undertake a continuous journey of over 14 hours at a stretch. Rash driving The speed limit for heavy vehicles, including large trucks, is 70 mph during the day and 65 mph at night. However, many truck drivers ignore these speed-limit specifications and end up driving rashly, causing accidents. As per 2020 reports by the Federal Motor Carrier Safety Administration, “speeding of any kind” was the most common factor, leading to fatal crashes of large trucks. Rookie drivers must avoid speeding at any cost, being particularly cautious when driving downhill. Following speed-limit regulations throughout the journey is better, as reducing the speed is challenging once the vehicle gains momentum. Drivers should be advised about the importance of speed regulations before being allowed to drive independently. Not considering the trailer Driving a heavy vehicle involves being conscious of the vehicle’s size at all times.