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3 Ways to Help Stroke Survivors to Recover

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If a loved one has recently suffered from a stroke, or you are worried that one day they might, learning how to spot the signs and symptoms of a stroke and how you can help them recover can give you peace of mind while also preparing you for the worst. Caring for a stroke survivor isn’t easy – there are many challenges that both you and the stroke survivor will have to face, but there is also a lot of help and resources out there that can support everyone involved.

Here are the best ways to help stroke survivors recover.

1.      Know the Signs and Symptoms of a Stroke

You may have heard this before, but you will want to act FAST when there are potential signs of a stroke. FAST stands for:

  • Face drooping
  • Arm weakness
  • Speech difficulty
  • Time to call 911

The faster you act, the more likely the stroke survivor is to recover and be able to go back to their former self. Immediate treatment for a stroke can be lifesaving and help minimize the risk of living with lifelong complications associated with a stroke. What’s more, you can also reduce the risk of suffering from a secondary stroke by recognizing and taking preventative measures. Read about these preventative measures here.

2.      Start Rehab Early

You will want to rebuild your body as soon as possible, and the stroke survivor may even find themselves presented with a physical therapy team a day after they have suffered from a stroke. They will start off by undergoing simple stretches and exercises with their arms and legs, rebuilding the movements they may have lost. The stroke survivor will have to relearn many of their old skills again which could mean relearning swallowing, eating, drinking and walking.

Rehab will typically see the stroke survivor relearning how to use and move their body so that they can reclaim independence. This can be a frustrating and overwhelming time of their life – it can also be painful and uncomfortable. They may also feel defeated every now and then if they do not think they are progressing quick enough. Always be there to support them and lend a hand. Encourage them by pointing out the small victories. However, try not to sound condescending. You may also want to prepare yourself as watching the rehab sessions could be emotionally and physically draining for you, too.

3.      Get the Right Equipment to Help

Firstly, you will want to find products that can help a stroke survivor swallow, eat and drink. Being unable to eat and drink can be painful but also frustrating, so looking for a food thickener can help the stroke survivor chew their food more comfortably. If you are unfamiliar with swallowing disorders, then the blog Simply Holahan can help offer advice and insight for those who may be suffering from dysphagia.

You may also want to invest in exercise equipment such as small weights so that they can rebuild their body in their own spare time. What’s more, you may need to invest in a wheelchair, too.

Suffering from a stroke can have long lasting and devastating effects on a person’s life. However, there are ways to help a stroke survivor reclaim independence and recover. Be there for them and offer a hand whenever it is needed. However, also remember to look after yourself.

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6 Things To Do After Being Involved in a Rideshare Accident

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Rideshare Accident

Rideshare programs have become a popular choice for traveling. Most people without cars use them to get around. That said, rideshare accidents have also become common, and some lead to severe injuries. Because these drivers work for rideshare companies, most people often wonder about the steps to take after getting involved in an accident with such drivers. Here are some of the things you need to do.

Check for Injuries

The first thing you need to do after an accident is to check for injuries. Your health should be your concern. If you have other passengers in the car and you can move, check if they are injured as well. Don’t move anyone who is unconscious, as you don’t know the extent of their injuries. If you have first aid knowledge, you can help, but don’t give medical care beyond what you’re qualified to do. You may end up causing more injuries.

Seek Medical Care

Seek medical attention even if you can’t see any injuries. Accidents tend to shock the people involved, which can prevent them from feeling any pain at the moment. The doctor will evaluate you and give you a clean bill of health if you’re fine or treat you for any injuries. The effects of car accidents can be long-lasting, especially if you ignore immediate medical care. That’s why it’s advisable to ensure you are okay.

Document the Scene of an Accident

If you can move, document the accident scene by taking photos and videos. Capture the location of each vehicle, the damage caused, nearby traffic signs and lights, and the surroundings. Even if you’re a passenger who ordered the rideshare vehicle, you should still collect evidence. It will come in handy when filing an injury claim. Plus, the evidence can prove who is responsible for the accident.

Report the Accident to the Police

Always call the police after being hit by a car. Often, most people try to solve the issue independently, only for the arrangement to backfire. Let the police come and write a report of the accident. You’ll need it when filing an insurance claim. The police will speak to everyone at the scene and write a neutral record. They might also issue a ticket to the driver who violated traffic laws.

Contact An Attorney

Most people assume you should only contact a lawyer when the insurance company is frustrated. However, you need to involve them from the start. Find a good car accident lawyer at Reinartz Law Firm who will advise you about the steps to take. Rideshare companies and insurance carriers have a lot of experience with car accident claims and can try to lowball you. A lawyer will argue on your behalf and ensure you get fair compensation.

Contact Your Insurance Company

Always contact your insurance company, regardless of who will be found at fault after a rideshare accident. That simple call will get the ball rolling on your compensation. It’s also an official notice, just in case things don’t go as planned and you have to depend on your policy to cover the expenses you incur. While the rideshare driver’s insurance coverage may pay for your expenses, their coverage may not be adequate. In such a case, your underinsured coverage will cover the extra cost, saving you additional expenses.

Getting hit by a rideshare driver is complicated. That’s because the drivers have to get their personal insurance coverage, and the rideshare company only provides additional coverage. As such, it can be hard to know who to deal with. That’s why you need an experienced car accident lawyer who will know how to navigate all these and secure you a fair settlement.

 

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Fruits for Fitness: Top Ten Health Benefits of Fruits

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Top Ten Health Benefits of Fruits

Fruits are not only delicious but they are also packed with essential nutrients that can help to improve overall health and well-being. From reducing the risk of chronic diseases to improving digestive health and boosting immune function, there are many benefits to consuming a variety of fruits as part of a balanced diet.

In this article, we will explore the numerous health benefits of fruits and provide examples of fruits that are particularly beneficial for each benefit. So, read on to learn more about the amazing health benefits of fruits and how you can incorporate them into your diet for optimal health.

Fruits are an essential component of a healthy diet and provide a variety of health benefits. Some of the health benefits of fruits include:

1. Fruits are Nutrient Rich

Fruits are rich in vitamins, minerals, and other nutrients that are essential for the proper functioning of the body. Many fruits are rich in a variety of nutrients, but some particularly nutrient-dense fruits include berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries), citrus fruits (such as oranges and grapefruits), kiwifruit, mangoes, and papayas.

2. Low in Calories

Most fruits are low in calories and high in fiber, which can help to reduce the risk of obesity and other chronic diseases. Fruits that are particularly low in calories include watermelon, cantaloupe, honeydew melon, strawberries, raspberries, blackberries, and blueberries.

3. Rich in Antioxidants

Fruits are rich in antioxidants, which can help to prevent damage to the cells in the body and reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as cancer, heart disease, and Alzheimer’s disease. Berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries), pomegranates, grapes, and cherries are particularly rich in antioxidants.

4. Reduce the Risk of Chronic Diseases

The consumption of fruits has been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, diabetes, and some cancers. Apples, oranges, bananas, berries, grapes, and kiwifruit have all been linked to a reduced risk of chronic diseases.

5. Improve Digestive Health

The fiber in fruits can help to promote healthy digestion and reduce the risk of constipation. Fruits that are particularly high in fiber and can help promote healthy digestion include raspberries, blackberries, pears, apples, bananas, and oranges.

6. Skin Health and Appearance

Fruits are rich in vitamins and antioxidants, which can help to improve the health and appearance of the skin. Fruits that are particularly rich in vitamin C and other antioxidants, which can help to improve the health and appearance of the skin, include kiwifruit, oranges, papayas, strawberries, and watermelon.

7. Increases Immunity

Fruits are rich in vitamin C, which can help to improve immune function and reduce the risk of infections. Fruits that are particularly high in vitamin C and can help to improve immune function include kiwifruit, oranges, grapefruit, strawberries, and papayas.

8. Lower the Risk of Stroke

Some studies have found that consuming fruits, especially berries and citrus fruits, may help to lower the risk of stroke. This may be due to the anti-inflammatory and antioxidant compounds found in fruits. Some fruits that may be especially beneficial for reducing the risk of stroke include citrus fruits (such as oranges and grapefruit), berries (such as strawberries, blueberries, and raspberries), and apples.

9. Improve Mental Health

Fruits, especially berries and citrus fruits have been linked to improved cognitive function and a reduced risk of cognitive decline. This may be due to their high content of flavonoids and other antioxidants. Berries (such as blueberries and strawberries) and citrus fruits (such as oranges and grapefruit) are particularly rich in flavonoids and other antioxidants that have been linked to improved cognitive function.

10. Reduce Inflammation

Fruits, especially those that are rich in antioxidants, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in the body. This may help to reduce the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, diabetes, and cancer. Fruits that are particularly high in antioxidants, such as berries (such as blueberries, raspberries, and blackberries), cherries, and pomegranates, have anti-inflammatory properties that can help to reduce inflammation in the body.

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6 Dance Styles That Can Boost Your Fitness

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6 Dance Styles That Can Boost Your Fitness

“Dance is the hidden language of the soul”- Martha Graham.

It is one of those activities which can liberate you from stress and elevate your mood. And you must be very much aware of the fact that dancing on a regular basis is one of the best ways to remain fit, both mentally and physically. Why is it different and better than the conventional style of working out? Because it is total fun, you don’t even realize that you are working out every muscle of yours.

Check out these 5 popular dance styles which will make your fitness journey a lot easier and more fun!

1.     Contemporary

The dance genre was developed in the mid-twentieth century as one of the most expressive dance styles. The popularity of the genre has sky-rocketed around the globe,  especially in Europe and America. It has elements of lyrical and classical ballet and jazz dance forms.

When you will acquire the skill of the dance form you will realize that it empowers you to express your deepest feelings through your body movements. One can choose a wide array of music to deploy the techniques of a contemporary dance performance.

2.     Dance Yoga

Yoga is undoubtedly one of the most practiced posture-based mental, spiritual, and physical fitness techniques. With increasing popularity, yoga enthusiasts have devised a dance style that is widely grabbing a lot of attention among fitness enthusiasts. If you believe in the power of Yoga, you should definitely try Dance Yoga which incorporates moves inspired by Yoga asanas. These moves can be very basic combined with simple music like chants or drum beats or they can be complicated asanas combined with fast-beat music.

This workout style is a perfect way to reap the benefits of yoga along with the joy that comes along with its music. If dance is not your style, you can simply register yourself in online yoga classes.

3.     Hip Hop

This dance form has been representing the young generation for three decades. The more you understand and practice Hip-Hop, you’ll realize that it is a culture more than a dance form. It is made up of exciting elements of music and arts like B-boying, Graffiti, MCing, and Deejaying. And even if you have developed a little skill in the dance style, you will understand that it is all about attitude, self-knowledge, and expression.

If you are a fitness freak, you’ll soon discover hip-hop hits in your workout playlist. The fast-paced music, the beats, and the lyrics literally multiply the zeal and the effort you put into your fitness sessions.

4.     Zumba

The Latin dance style, Zumba is widely practiced as a group workout, around the globe. The interval training dance style incorporates low and high-intensity dance moves, designed to enhance heart health. To groove on the fusion of Latin and international music will give you a party-like experience. And you won’t even realize that you are working on those extra pounds.

Whether you are dancing alone at home or grooving with a group in a Zumba class, you will enjoy the dance numbers and the moves, even if you are not that good at it. In a good 60-minute Zumba session, you can burn an average of 370 calories, which is more than the calories burnt in aerobics and kickboxing. With consistency, you can achieve great flexibility, strong core muscles, and a great physique.

5.     Masala Bhangra

Masala Bhangra Workout has revolutionized the high-energy Indian folk dance of Bhangra. It is a perfect alchemy of Bhangra, Bollywood dance style, Hip-Hop, and Salsa. It is fun to incorporate this dance style as a workout regimen as it is fun and rigorous at the same time. A good Masala Bhangra workout training can help you burn approximately 500 calories, which is more than burnt in Zumba!

The high-intensity workout form, Masala Bhangra is a great way to work on your stamina, balance, endurance, and overall body strength. You can view some of the cool moves on youtube to ensure that it is one of the most recent and interesting ways to boost your fitness.

6.      Belly Dancing

This core-strengthening dance form is a great workout option. Although it goes way back to the 18th century, it is incorporated in so many movies and global stages today. Besides its popularity, it has several benefits to offer. It especially targets the stomach, oblique, glutes, and thighs. Moreover, it helps in enhancing posture, body coordination, and balance.

The music is also rich in beats and rhythm. If you are impressed with this dance form you can explore some awesome belly dance classes architected by highly trained and acclaimed teachers on ipassio. Once you will add this dance form to your workout regimen, you will realize that it is inexplicably addictive.

Dance your way to Fitness

“To dance is to be out of yourself, larger, more beautiful, more powerful. This power, it is glory on earth and it is yours for the taking”- Agnes De Mille

So why not equip yourself with the powers of a dance style of your choice? Because, if a person is fit and happy from within, it reflects physically. You will feel younger, stronger, and more confident if you are consistent with your dance practice.

So give a fun angle to your workout sessions with passion dance classes from the convenience of your homes.

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Things To Know About Tests and Procedures Used to Diagnose Cancer

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Diagnose Cancer

Cancer diagnoses are a terrifying reality for many people, and the tests and procedures used to confirm them can be confusing and overwhelming. Understanding the different types of tests and methods used to diagnose cancer is essential for anyone who wants to make an informed decision about their care.

This blog post will discuss some critical things about tests and procedures used to diagnose cancer, including what they are, why they’re done, how they’re performed, and what results they can provide.

We’ll also discuss common treatments that may be recommended after a diagnosis. Many CROs manage clinical trials for various diseases, and some CROs specialize in oncology trials. Knowing more about how cancer is diagnosed can help you make decisions that will be vital in your fight against the disease. 

Imaging Tests for Cancer

Depending on the type of cancer, your doctor may order one or more imaging tests to help make a diagnosis. Imaging tests use x-rays, magnetic fields, sound waves, or radioactive substances to create pictures of the inside of your body. Some imaging tests are used to look for cancer, while others are used to find out how far it has spread.

Your doctor may order a computed tomography (CT) scan to look for cancer in your body. During a CT scan, you lie on a table, and an x-ray machine rotates around you, taking detailed pictures of your organs and structures. A CT scan can sometimes find cancers too small to be seen with other imaging tests.

Your doctor may also order a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan to look for cancer in your body. An MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures of your organs and structures. MRI scans can sometimes find cancers too small to be seen with other imaging tests.

Your doctor may also order an ultrasound exam to look for cancer in your body. During an ultrasound exam, a transducer device is placed against your skin. The transducer emits sound waves that bounce off tissues and organs inside your body and create echoes. These echoes are converted into images that can be seen on a monitor. Ultrasound exams can sometimes find cancers too small to be seen with other imaging tests.

Biopsy Procedures

Several types of biopsy procedures can be used to diagnose cancer. The type of biopsy procedure used will depend on the location and type of cancer being diagnosed.

  • A needle biopsy is a common type of biopsy procedure. A needle biopsy can be performed using a fine or core needle. A fine needle biopsy uses a thin needle to remove cells from the body. A core needle biopsy uses a giant hand to remove a small piece of tissue from the body.
  • A surgical biopsy is another type of biopsy procedure. A surgical biopsy involves removing all or part of the tumor for examination. This type of Biopsy is usually done under general anesthesia, which means you will be asleep during the procedure.
  • A skin biopsy is another procedure that can be used to diagnose skin cancer. A skin biopsy involves removing a small sample of skin for examination. This type of Biopsy can be done using a razor blade, punch Biopsy, or excisional Biopsy.

Endoscopic Procedures

Endoscopic procedures are a group of diagnostic tests and procedures using a long, thin tube with a light and camera attached. The tube is inserted through a small incision in the body or natural openings, such as the mouth. Endoscopic procedures allow your doctor to see inside your body without making a large incision.

There are many different types of endoscopic procedures, each with its own set of risks and benefits. Your doctor will discuss each procedure’s risks and benefits before deciding which is right for you.

Some standard endoscopic procedures used to diagnose cancer include:

  • Colonoscopy

A colonoscopy examines the large intestine (colon) lining for abnormalities. A colonoscopy can also remove polyps, which are growths on the colon lining that may become cancerous if left untreated.

  • Gastroscopy

Gastroscopy examines the stomach’s lining for abnormalities. A gastroscopy can also be used to remove polyps from the stomach lining.

  • Bronchoscopy

A bronchoscopy is used to examine the airways for abnormalities. A bronchoscopy can also take biopsies (tissue samples) from suspicious areas.

  • Endoscopic Ultrasound

For abnormalities, an endoscopic ultrasound examines the digestive organs (such as the stomach, small intestine, and colon). Endoscopic ultrasound can also be used to take biopsies from these organs.

  • Cystoscopy

A cystoscopy examines the bladder and urethra (the tube leading from the bladder to the outside of the body) for abnormalities. A cystoscopy can also be used to take biopsies from suspicious areas of the bladder or urethra.

Endoscopic procedures are usually performed on an outpatient basis, meaning you will not have to stay in a hospital overnight. The procedure may cause slight discomfort but should not cause severe pain. Your doctor will provide detailed instructions on preparing for your procedure and what you should expect during and after it.

Surgical Procedures

Many different types of surgical procedures can be used to diagnose cancer. The most common type of surgery is a biopsy, in which a small tissue sample is removed from the body for examination. Other surgeries used to diagnose cancer may include fine needle aspiration, core needle biopsy, and incisional Biopsy. Surgery is usually only performed if there is a suspicion of cancer-based on other tests, such as X-rays or CT scans.

In some cases, surgery may also be used to treat cancer. This type of surgery is often called an excisional biopsy or resection. The entire tumor or affected tissue area is removed from the body during this procedure. Surgery can also remove lymph nodes that may contain cancerous cells.

Molecular Diagnostics

Molecular diagnostics is a rapidly evolving field that offers new hope for more accurate, earlier, and less invasive cancer detection. Molecular tests are performed on a patient’s DNA to look for specific cancer-related changes (mutations). These tests can be used to detect the presence of cancer, to help diagnose the type and stage of cancer, and to guide treatment decisions.

Molecular diagnostics is still a relatively new field, and there is much ongoing research to improve its accuracy and broaden its applications. However, molecular tests are already used in clinical practice to inform cancer diagnosis and treatment decisions. For example, the genetic test known as fluorescence in situ hybridization (FISH) can detect certain chromosomal changes associated with specific types of cancer. FISH testing is often used along with other diagnostic tests, such as cytogenetic testing, for a more definitive diagnosis.

Molecular diagnostics holds excellent potential for improving cancer diagnosis and treatment. As this field continues to evolve and new technologies become available, researchers hope that molecular diagnostics will become an even more valuable tool in the fight against cancer.

Conclusion

A cancer diagnosis can be a complicated process, and many tests and procedures are used for diagnosis. We hope this article has provided you with an overview of the standard tests used to diagnose cancer so that you can feel more informed about the steps involved. It is essential to consult your doctor if you have any questions or concerns about the test results, as they can provide advice tailored specifically to your situation.

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Discussing Cholesterol: Is it harmful or is it important?

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Cholesterol is a natural substance your body needs to work properly. It’s also a type of lipid or fat used to build cell membranes, synthesize vitamin D and hormones, and form bile acids.

The body produces as much cholesterol as it needs from other less complex molecules. However, the liver produces about 80 percent of your body’s cholesterol.

But not all cholesterol is bad for you. If you didn’t have any in your blood, you’d die. However, the amount of cholesterol in your blood can become too high. When this occurs, it can lead to heart disease and other health problems.

 

What are HDL and LDL?

Cholesterol comes in two forms:

  1. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is the “bad” cholesterol that clogs arteries.

Cholesterol levels are often an indicator of heart disease risk.

LDL is associated with higher “bad” cholesterol and lower levels of “good” cholesterol, which are both risk factors for coronary artery disease.

 

  1. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is the “good” cholesterol that sweeps LDL away from the walls of our arteries. (HDL is sometimes called “good” cholesterol because it does a good job cleaning up LDL.) HDL has been shown to lower the risk factors for heart disease.

 

Why does cholesterol matter?

Cholesterol is needed for the production of certain hormones and vitamin D.

By curtailing cholesterol absorption and increasing bile excretion, statins reduce cholesterol in our blood, which lowers LDL levels and improves heart disease risk.

 

Sources of cholesterol

 

The following are sources where cholesterol is found:

Cholesterol is most commonly found in foods from animals and plants, but your body can also synthesize cholesterol from other fatty acids.

Foods high in cholesterol include liver, egg yolk, and meat.

These foods can increase cholesterol levels and obesity, but they don’t automatically make you fat.

Fruits, vegetables, and grains contain little or no cholesterol.

 

Its functions

 

Functions of Cholesterol in the organism

1.Cholesterol and hormones (Estrogen, Progesterone, Prolactin)

Cholesterol is also one of the basic constituents of sex hormones (estrogen, progesterone, and prolactin). Cholesterol is part of the hormone that stimulates the mammary glands to produce milk.

  1. Cholesterol is a precursor of vitamin D, testosterone, and estrogen, another important hormone.
  2. Cholesterol is needed for the development and functioning of the nervous system, as well as for the synthesis and structure of cell membranes. It is also fundamental for producing 4. cholesterol – a precursor of important hormones in our body: testosterone, estrogen, and progesterone.
  3. Cholesterol is also involved in the synthesis and structure of other important substances found everywhere in the body. Cholesterol is a precursor of vitamin D, progesterone, and estrogen – important hormones used in HRT at Medzone to treat the symptoms of menopause and HGH deficiency.

 

Cholesterol and women:

Women are more prone to heart attacks than men. Cholesterol is a key player. High cholesterol levels raise the risk of heart attack, stroke, and other cardiovascular diseases. Blood testing for cholesterol can help to detect high levels. If the levels are elevated, you should consider changing your lifestyle.

Cardiovascular Diseases are the leading cause of death in the US and worldwide.

 

Risk factors

 

What diseases are caused by high cholesterol?

  1. Coronary artery disease.

A heart attack happens when blood flow to an area of the heart muscle is blocked, usually because of a blood clot. A heart attack is often called a myocardial infarction or MI.

  1. Strokes and other cardiovascular diseases, in general, may be related to high levels of LDL cholesterol and low levels of HDL cholesterol. High cholesterol also increases the risk for hemorrhagic stroke or bleeding in the brain from weakened arteries.
  2. A low concentration of HDL cholesterol is linked to an increased risk for stroke and death from heart disease.
  3. Data suggest that a low HDL cholesterol level increases the risk for diabetes, cancer, and age-related macular degeneration.

How to save normal cholesterol levels

  1. Eat less fatty foods

Fatty substances are not only saturated but also low-density lipoproteins (so-called “bad” cholesterol). Experts say that reducing the cholesterol level in the body should begin with dietary cholesterol.

  1. Get rid of excess weight weight

Exercise is one of the most effective ways to improve your health and lose weight, as well as prevent chronic diseases in later years. Remarkably, exercising is more important than dieting on cholesterol levels.

  1. HGH therapy

Medzone offers anti-aging HGH therapy to a wide range of people looking for health, beauty, and wellbeing. The therapy has been prescribed to many people, including those who have suffered from no success in weight loss using diet and exercise.

  1. Quit bad habits

Smoking, heavy drinking, excessive use of alcohol, and drug abuse affect your health. It is not surprising that these excesses can also destroy your heart.

  1. Regular exercise

Regular exercise is an important part of any healthy lifestyle. Physical activity keeps your muscles fit (the more fit your muscles, the better you look). It also helps keep weight down and can help lower cholesterol.

Conclusion

If you do not intend to change your lifestyle, you can’t expect drastic changes in your cholesterol level. You need to adopt good habits that will bring positive changes, and it’s not possible (in most cases) to save cholesterol levels by changing your lifestyle alone. If you are taking medications for high cholesterol, you should take them under medical advice to avoid any negative effects these drugs may have on your health.

Sources:

Medlineplus

Havard medical school

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