A high level of cholesterol will increase the chances of heart diseases. Medications do help in keeping the cholesterol levels in check. However, instead of medications, if you can change your lifestyle, then it will be beneficial for you in the longer run. Before getting to know what kind of changes in your lifestyle will help, let’s see what the normal cholesterol levels are for your body. A blood test called lipid profile checks your cholesterol levels and generally reports the flowing things: Total cholesterol Triglycerides High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol What are the normal cholesterol levels ? The normal cholesterol levels depend on lot many factors but usually, they are universal for all. In order to get the perfect numbers or your cholesterol, it is highly recommended that you don’t drink (except water) or eat anything for about 9 to 12 hours prior to submitting blood samples. In the United States of America, the cholesterol levels are generally measured in mg/dl or milligrams (mg) of cholesterol in per decilitre (dl) of blood. Below are the various levels of measurement used for measuring cholesterol. Total cholesterol Below 200 mg/dl- Mostly desirable Between 200 mg/dl to 239 mg/dl- Borderline 240 mg/dl and above- High Triglycerides Below 150 mg/dl- Mostly desirable 150-199 mg/dl- Borderline 200-499 mg/dl- High 500 mg/dl and above- Very high HDL Cholesterol Below 40 mg/dl (men) or Below 50 mg/dl (women)- Poor 50-59 mg/dl- Better 60 mg/dl and above- Best LDL Cholesterol Below 70 mg/dl- Ideal cholesterol levels for those who are suffering from heart disease or diabetes Below 100 mg/dl- Highest for those people who are at risk of heart disease 100-129 mg/dl- Close to optimal if there are no heart diseases; high if the person has heart disease. 130-159 mg/dl- Borderline high if there are no heart diseases; high in case of heart disease.

Nothing is more loyal and dedicated as belly fat—whatever you do, it just never seems to leave, it always overstays its welcome. Unfortunately, a majority of the world’s population suffers from belly fat issues. A lot of people try ab crunches, crash diets, detox diets, and many tricks to lose belly fat, but here’s the thing—you need to work hard to lose belly fat. Good exercise, healthy eating, and a good lifestyle are important if you want a flat stomach, there is no easy way out. Many factors are responsible for abdominal fat or belly fat. A few of them include: Your genes play an important role in your body type. If you have a family history of obesity, you’re more likely to be obese and have belly fat as opposed to those who don’t have a family history of obesity. If you have a hormonal imbalance or if your hormones are going haywire, you’re more likely to end up with belly fat. This is the reason why a lot of women experience bloating during their menstrual cycle. Also, women above 40 are more prone to belly fat because menopause includes hormonal imbalance, which, in turn, can lead to belly fat. Not getting enough sleep can cause a weight gain as it decreases your metabolism. Stress causes weight gain as well. When stressed, your body releases a hormone known as cortisol, which can alter the chemical balance of your body, and make you crave for comfort foods that are usually sugary and junk foods. Lose the flab – How to get rid of belly fat Belly fat is one of the most stubborn fats in your body, so if you’re wondering how to get rid of belly fat, then dedication and willpower is much needed. You need to make a few lifestyle changes and follow these tips if you want the perfect stomach.

In meningococcal meningitis, the meninges or the lining of the spinal cord and the brain is infected. The infection can be caused by bacteria or virus. However, the meningococcus bacterium is more commonly known to cause meningitis as well meningococcemia. The bacterium is categorized into five groups known as serogroups: A, B, C, W, and Y. The bacterium is often present in the throat region of many people. It is quite benign. But, once it enters the bloodstream or the spinal fluid, the disease can cause a lot of damage. One way to protect against this disease is to get the meningococcal meningitis vaccine. Given below are a few things to know about meningitis and meningococcal meningitis vaccine. Although the meningitis bacterium is present in a lot of people, certain sections are more prone to this disease. The most common groups who are at a high risk of contracting this disease are Infants, teenagers, and young adults. It has been observed that people in a community setting, such as a college campus, are prone to meningitis. Also, people who lack a spleen in their body, have a deficiency of a complement component, or are infected with HIV can easily contract meningitis. Specific geographical regions such as the sub-Saharan African region have frequent outbreaks of meningitis. People who stay in or travel to such regions are prone to meningitis. Meningitis does not spread through casual contact or breathing. However, it is contagious through saliva or spits. Meningitis has been known to spread through secretions of the throat or the respiratory system. Anyone who is in close physical contact with a patient with meningitis is at a high risk of contracting the disease. Antibiotics treatment or meningococcal meningitis vaccine is advisable for such a person as a preventive measure. The meningococcal meningitis vaccine is used to immunize against all five serogroups of the meningococcus bacteria.

Daily nutrition impacts overall health, so one must maintain a healthy intake of vitamins, minerals, and nutrients to keep vital organs in check. Simultaneously, it is necessary to avoid triggering foods and beverages that spike blood sugar and blood pressure levels. These spikes can affect the eyes, heart, brain, and overall metabolism resulting in a number of health complications. Therefore, here are foods to avoid to lower the risk of dry eyes and irritation. Processed meats Processed meats contain a lot of unhealthy fats, additives, and preservatives. These elements spike blood pressure (hypertension) and increase the risk of hypertensive atrophy. The condition mainly damages healthy blood vessels in the eye, causing blurry vision. High blood pressure also triggers a buildup of fluid behind the retina and blocks the blood flow to nerves that control vision. One must avoid excess consumption of red meats like beef, pork, lamb, sausages, bacon, and other cuts sold at the deli counter in the supermarket. Foods rich in unsaturated fats and sugar Cooking in hydrogenated vegetable oils increases the intake of unsaturated fats. Safflower, sunflower, corn, soybean, and sesame oils all contain linoleic acid. Studies show linolenic acid increases the risk of inflammation with dry eyes syndrome. It is unclear how severe the effects may be, but experts recommend switching to healthier substitutes. Also, avoid using refined sugar, one of the main ingredients found in most processed foods, baked goods, and confectionaries. Sugar triggers a blood glucose imbalance and affects the natural production of tears worsening the symptoms linked to dry eyes. Fried foods and store-bought beverages Deep-fried foods, including french fries, chips, and any other sodium or sugar-rich confectionery, severely increases bad cholesterol levels. Digesting fried foods releases free radicals that cause oxidative damage affecting healthy cells in the eyes. Free radicals are known to increase the risk of age-related macular degeneration and diabetic retinopathy associated with dry eyes syndrome.

Atopic dermatitis is a condition wherein the skin begins to look red and patchy. It is a skin condition that is persistent and affects a large population around the world. This chronic disease often begins during childhood and persists till adulthood. People suffering from atopic dermatitis are found to have a more sensitive skin and one that is easily affected by irritants. This condition is of a special type that is an allergic sensitivity that is connected to inhalants, asthma, and allergies. In most cases, atopic dermatitis may be carried down through genes and thus, is a hereditary condition. The allergy leads the skin to peel and becomes inflamed, causing an appearance of redness, scaling, cracking, and formation of blisters. What may come across as dry skin initially, turns into atopic dermatitis over time. However, the skin condition is not contagious and does not pass from person to person. One should not have any reservations or concerns when dealing with a person who is suffering from this skin disorder. Atopic dermatitis usually occurs among infants and younger individuals; however, it can affect people from any age group, sex, or race. The disease may become worse or better during some period. The days when the skin begins to look more inflamed and is worse, it is known as flares. Post this period, the allergic area may slowly look better and can also clear up with time. Many kids experience that their disease becomes better as they grow older; this period is known as remission. However, the skin may continue to feel sensitive and irritated. Several factors can contribute to the worsening the condition of atopic dermatitis. Environmental factors such as allergic elements, soaps and detergents, and humidity can worsen or trigger inflammation altogether. Also, these factors can activate the condition in people who have inherited the disease from their ancestors.

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is an irregular and rapid heart rhythm that causes blood clots in the heart. It can further lead to an increase in the risk of strokes, heart failure, and other cardiac conditions. And though there are treatments like medication, therapy, and catheter procedures for the condition, you must also consider including these foods in your regular meal plan for a healthy heart. Bananas Lack of nutrients, especially potassium in the body, can put you at a higher risk for AFib. So you must have nutrient-rich fruits like bananas. They are rich in potassium, which in turn help manage atrial fibrillation. But make sure to eat fresh fruits and not canned ones, as the latter contain excessive sugars that prove unsafe for the body. Blueberries Blueberries can also help manage the symptoms of AFib. Research suggests that berries contain antioxidants. So having just one cup of blueberries a day may help improve blood pressure and lower atrial stiffness for postmenopausal women in pre-and stage 1 hypertension. Nuts Nuts like almonds and walnuts are rich in protein, fibers, unsaturated fatty acids, vitamin E, minerals, folate, and more. Therefore, consuming these nuts multiple times a week can help reduce the risk of atrial fibrillation and curb the possibility of heart failure. Greek yogurt Greek yogurt is a source of protein that is a crucial requirement to fight AFib. Proteins can prevent the loss of bone mass and lean muscle mass. Yogurt also has significant levels of magnesium, which also complement the rhythm of the heart. However, avoid flavored yogurts as they are high in sugar content and other unhealthy additives. Tomatoes Tomatoes are rich in potassium and help the muscles function to their highest potential. It is also a good source of antioxidants, beta-carotene, vitamin A and C, and folic acid, which are beneficial for a healthy lifestyle.

6 FDA-approved medications for high cholesterol High cholesterol leads to fatty deposits in the blood vessels. Over time, these deposits grow, causing difficulties for the blood to flow through the arteries. In some cases, the deposits may break off and form clots. These can cause a stroke or heart attack. There can be multiple causes of high cholesterol; the causes can be genetic or a result of unhealthy lifestyle habits. This makes high cholesterol a preventable and treatable health disorder. High cholesterol can be easily managed by following a balanced and healthy diet along with regular exercise. In case the cholesterol levels are extremely high, medications may be required to control and manage the condition. There are a few medications for high cholesterol that are approved by the FDA. All these medications must be taken only when prescribed by a doctor. Kynamro A cholesterol-lowering medication, Kynamro works by lowering bad cholesterol in the blood, such as non-high-density lipoprotein (non-HDL), apolipoprotein-B (apo-B), and low-density lipoprotein (LDL). It is effective when used along with a low-fat diet and other prescribed treatments. Kynamro is usually recommended to those with homozygous familial hypercholesterolemia, an inherited type of high cholesterol. It is, however, not suitable for those with heterozygous familial hypercholesterolemia. Although Kynamro lowers high cholesterol levels, it is uncertain if the medication can lower the risk of heart diseases. Altoprev Altoprev, when used with a diet, helps lower blood levels of bad cholesterol such as low-density lipoprotein (LDL). Altoprev works by increasing the levels of good cholesterol or high-density lipoprotein (HDL). The medication also lowers the levels of triglycerides, a type of fat in the blood. A high level of triglycerides increases the risk of cardiovascular disorders. The use of Altoprev has been known to lower the risks of heart attacks, strokes, and other heart complications resulting from diabetes.

The Human Papillomavirus (HPV) triggers STD (sexually transmitted diseases) infections that mostly spread through intimate contact. Studies indicate that at least 1 in 4 people have a chance of contracting the HPV infection. In most cases, the symptoms experienced are mild, and the infection tends to resolve on its own without the need for medical intervention. However, HPV is one of the leading triggers of 6 different types of cancer that affect men and women in the later stages of life. Statistics indicate that nearly 80 million people in the country may carry some form of the HPV virus. From these, roughly 14 million are infected each year. The vaccine for HPV is effective in preventing and reducing the risk of cancer and is administered early on in children. The ideal time to get an HPV vaccine By the age of 9 The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) recommends administering two doses of the vaccine to children by the age of 9. Between the ages 11 and 12 The child may need more than two doses for it to be effective between the ages of 11 and 12. Timing is absolutely crucial when it comes to the HPV vaccine’s effectiveness. By the age of 15 If the child has not yet turned 15, CDC recommends only two doses. Otherwise, three doses are given to the child on or after the 15 th For teenagers and young adults In case the vaccination is not administered by the age of 15, teenagers and young adults may continue to receive the three recommended doses until the age of 26. Adults beyond the age of 26 The HPV vaccine is not necessary for adults above the age of 26. However, adults aged 27 to 45 may consult their doctor to check if a vaccine is required.

Supplements and vitamins can help your muscles, bones, and many other body parts. According to many medical study reports, some of the vitamins and supplements may help in improving the blood pressure, lowering the cholesterol level along with maintaining other things that can put your heart at risk. Here is a list of some of the best vitamins for a healthy heart and some supplements. Even though it is unclear whether these vitamins or food supplements help in preventing strokes, heart attacks, and other heart-related diseases or not, but still it is sure that these help in maintaining a healthy heart. Read on and try to add these vitamins, nutrients, and supplements to your daily diet to maximize the heart health. Vitamin B9 (Folic Acid) This is one of the best vitamins for a healthy heart, which you can add to your diet chart. It helps in regulating the homocysteine in the bloodstream. This homocysteine is an amino acid that is associated with the possible risks of causing blood clots. Broccoli, asparagus, Brussels sprouts, and lentils are great natural resources of vitamin b9. Vitamin D Many medical research reports have reflected the fact that deficiency of vitamin D can lead to higher chances of heart-related problems. Hence, getting a sufficient amount of vitamin D is necessary to stay healthy. Your body produces this one of the best heart health vitamins. If you are in the sunlight, the production rate of vitamin D increases. However, being in the sunlight for a long time can cause other health issues as well. Vitamin D helps in regulating blood pressure. Aging, obesity, and getting lesser exposure to the sunlight can cause a deficiency of this vitamin. Coenzyme Q10 Well, technically, this is an enzyme. It not only helps in keeping a better heart health but also helps in lowering the cardiac failure signs and symptoms as per many medical study reports.

Irritable Bowel Syndrome or IBS is a common condition associated with the large intestine of our body. It affects around 25-45 million Americans. People in their late teens to the early 40s are likely to get affected by this condition. A person with IBS often experiences a mix of belly discomfort or pain along with trouble in bowel habits. Some other symptoms are cramping, bloating, mucus formation in the stool, and gas. Although it isn’t a life-threatening disease, it requires long-term management, a healthy lifestyle, and proper treatment to get rid of IBS. Mostly, healthcare professionals categorize IBS into three categories which are as follows: IBS-D where diarrhea is the predominant symptom IBS-C where constipation is the predominant symptom IBS-M where predominant symptoms can be a mix of diarrhea and constipation Factors that lead to IBS-D Though the precise causes of IBS-D are still unknown, let’s have a look at some of the factors that play a vital role in the development of this condition: Intestinal muscle contractions The intestinal walls have muscle linings that allow food to pass through the digestive tract through its contraction and relaxation movements. If the intestinal contractions are stronger than the average levels, it can lead to the formation of gas, bloating, and even diarrhea. At the same time, if the muscle contractions are weaker than usual, food passes slowly through the digestive tract, which can lead to the formation of hard and dry stool. Nervous system Abnormalities in the nerves in your digestive system can cause your body to overreact to changes. Thus, it could result in discomfort, pain, or even diarrhea and constipation. Intestinal inflammation Some people with IBS-D develops an increased number of immune-system cells in the intestinal walls which leads to inflammation of these walls. This condition plays a role in the formation of more serious digestive abnormalities including diarrhea and constipation.

Good food and proper nutrition are beneficial in reducing the risk of developing diabetes, heart diseases, cancer, obesity, and prostate cancer. One third of adults die of cancer in the country. A healthy diet enhances the immune system and increases the energy levels, which facilitates in recovery from diseases. It is important to maintain a healthy diet if you want to lower the risk of developing prostate cancer. Here are some guidelines you can follow to maintain the health of your prostate. Your diet should contain plenty of fruits and vegetables, which are rich in fiber but low in fat, and the intake of sugar should be largely reduced. For prostate health Fruits and vegetables contain lots of vitamins, inflammation-reducing substances, natural fiber, minerals, polyphones, and antioxidants. Many people do not consume enough fruits and vegetables and a change in the way you eat is required by including a variety of vegetables and fruits. These should include cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, kale, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower and broccoli, which contain phytochemicals that help reduce oxidative stress. Carrots, tomatoes, mushrooms, pomegranate, grapes, grapefruit are citrus fruits and can be included in one’s diet to manage prostate health. A research group has linked prostate cancer with lycopene, which is an antioxidant, and its consumption reduces the risk of prostate cancer. Lycopene is found in tomatoes, tomato products, and red vegetables and fruits. Reduce the intake of animal products like dairy products, animal fat, and red meat – lamb, pork, and beef. They are tied to the development of prostate cancer. Eating soya in the form of soy milk, edamame, tempeh, and tofu is known to reduce the risk of prostate cancer. It is known to contain isoflavones, which is a plant compound/phytochemical. Since soy intake is high in Asian countries, the incidence of prostate cancer is very low in Asia.

Foot pain is a critical aspect of everyday life. It causes a hindrance to many daily chores performed physically. Activities such as walking and running become difficult to perform when there is a pain on the top of the foot. The foot is indeed one of the strongest parts of the body. It supports 1.5 times the weight of the body. Approximately 75% of the country’s population ends up suffering from top of foot pain once in their lifetime. There are treatments available; however, it always depends on the nature and cause of the pain. There are several reasons behind top of foot pain. The following factors trigger top of foot pain in addition to the treatment suggested for the same. Stress fractures The condition is characterized by a small break in one of the foot bones, which is common to metatarsals. The general symptoms of the problem are that suffer feels tender on touching and swelling around the area. The causes of this particular problem are overloading foot such as excessive jumping, running, and kicking. Treatments for the problem include rest, ice, foot brace, medications, and surgery. Extensor tendonitis It is inflammation and irritation of the tendons on the top of the foot. It can be recognized by swelling and bruising on the top of the foot. It may be uncomfortable wearing shoes. It is caused by wearing shoes that are tight, spending long hours on foot, calf tightness, and altered foot biomechanics. It could also be uncomfortable to walk and run in this condition. It is recommended to change the way you wear your shoelaces. You can also use orthotics, ice, rest, stretch the calf muscles, and use ultrasound to detect the actual problem. Sinus Tarsi Syndrome It is a rather uncommon foot problem that starts from the top of the foot and spreads toward the external section of the ankle.