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Impact of sugar on cholesterol levels and ways to manage it
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Impact of sugar on cholesterol levels and ways to manage it

Most individuals, especially those with a sweet tooth, find it hard to avoid sugary foods from their daily meal plan because sugar is an integral part of various food items. However, excessive intake of sugar is associated with many health conditions, including diabetes, high blood pressure, cardiovascular diseases, and even cholesterol. Some easy and effective strategies to reduce sugar intake and its direct impact on one’s cholesterol levels are listed below. Types of cholesterol There are two types of cholesterol- LDL (low-density lipoprotein), otherwise known as bad cholesterol HDL (high-density lipoprotein), otherwise known as good cholesterol LDL causes plaque buildup in one’s arteries, creates blockages, hampers blood flow, and raises the risk of developing heart disease and stroke. Meanwhile, HDL helps the body to get rid of bad cholesterol. HDL carries LDL to the liver, where it is eventually eliminated from the body. Effects of sugar on cholesterol levels Healthcare professionals recommend exercising and reducing the intake of saturated fats for individuals with high cholesterol. However, unbeknownst to many, sugar is another hidden contributing factor to cholesterol. Some studies have shown that people who consumed more than half a cup of sugar daily had low HDL levels in the body.
5 ways consuming sugary soda affects one’s health
health

5 ways consuming sugary soda affects one’s health

Sugar is one of the most commonly used condiments in daily cooking. In fact, most processed foods bought off the shelves in the supermarket contain some form of artificial sweetener added to enhance the taste. One example is the variety of carbonated beverages, flavored sodas, and fruit juices sold. A 12-ounce can of soda contains 10 teaspoons or 39 grams of sugar. Consuming sugary beverages affects one’s health in the following ways. Triggers type 2 diabetes Sodas are laced with artificial sweeteners that rapidly increase blood sugar levels in the body. Frequently consuming these sugary beverages causes healthy cells to become less resistant to natural insulin produced by the body. Insulin resistance combined with increased blood sugar severely increases the risk of diabetes. Leads to joint problems Fructose, a form of sugar, is one of the known risk factors linked to certain types of arthritis, mainly gout. It leads to the build-up of uric acid crystals in the big toe. Consistently consuming excessive amounts of sugar can trigger flare-ups associated with gout and worsen the pain. Causes dental problems Sugar left behind in the crevices of the teeth and healthy gums triggers problems like cavities and infections. That’s because the bacteria feed off excess sugar left behind after consuming sweetened juices, flavored sodas, and carbonated beverages.
3 types of common signs of Huntington’s disease
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3 types of common signs of Huntington’s disease

Huntington’s disease or Huntington disease results in a progressive breakdown or a degeneration of nerve cells in the brain. This is a rare disease, typically passed down through generations, which means it is inherited. It impacts the functional abilities of a person, leading to cognitive, movement, and psychiatric disorders. There is no treatment to cure the disease completely; however, there are options to help manage the symptoms. Here are common signs of the disease. Signs and symptoms of Huntington’s disease The symptoms vary from person to person, as there is a wide spectrum of signs to look out for. Here are some symptoms that can be observed in patients: Movement disorders This kind of disorder involves not just involuntary movement disorders but also impaired movement disorders. Examples include writhing movements called chorea or involuntary jerking. Chorea is a movement disorder that occurs due to an overactivity of dopamine in brain areas that control movement. This overactivity leads to sudden, involuntary, irregular, and uncontrollable jerky movements, which can occur in the arms, legs, and facial muscles. Muscle issues like rigidity or muscle contracture (also called dystonia), slow or unusual eye movements, difficulty with speech or swallowing, and impaired gait, posture, and balance are noted.
9 warning signs that indicate bone cancer
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9 warning signs that indicate bone cancer

Bone cancer occurs due to abnormal cell growth in a bone, usually the arm, leg, or pelvic bones, but sometimes the skull, hips, and ribs. In its advanced stages, bone cancer may spread to other body parts, including the surrounding tissues, bones, and organs. On the bright side, patients with bone cancer can recover completely if the condition is diagnosed and treated early. Understanding some of its early signs can help with timely diagnosis and intervention. Swelling Most individuals with bone cancer experience inflammation and swelling over the affected area, leading to restricted mobility, mainly if the cancer occurs in a bone close to a joint. Fever In some cases, bone cancer may escalate to fever of 100 degrees Fahrenheit or above. Although the underlying cause of such fever is unclear, some studies suggest that it may be due to certain toxins produced in the bodies of patients with bone cancer. Bone Lump Bone cancer sometimes leads to the development of a lump on the affected bone. This lump may grow with the progression of cancer and may sometimes cause pain. Anemia and fatigue The bones in one’s body govern the production of red blood cells (RBC), which supply oxygen throughout the body.
COPD – Early signs and management
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COPD – Early signs and management

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disorder (COPD) is a chronic inflammatory lung condition. This common disorder affects over 12 million people in the country, causing an obstruction in the airflow in the lungs. Recognizing early signs of COPD can lead to a quicker diagnosis. This allows for better management of the condition, reducing the risk of lung function loss. This article sheds light on the early signs and management of COPD: Signs Here are some of the early signs of COPD: Shortness of breath with mild physical exercise such as walking, using the stairs, or performing daily activities Difficulty taking a deep breath Wheezing Chest tightness Chronic cough that may produce clear, white, yellow, or greenish mucus Frequent respiratory infections Lack of energy or fatigue that lasts for more than a day Swelling in the ankles, feet, or legs Change in color, thickness, amount, or odor of sputum (mucus) Presence of blood in sputum Frequent morning headaches or dizziness Fever, especially with cold or flu symptoms Restlessness, confusion, forgetfulness, or slurred speech COPD treatment COPD treatment is focused on symptom management, such as relieving coughing, easing breathing problems, and reducing the risk of respiratory infections. Commonly prescribed treatment methods include the following:
4 early signs of COPD to know of
health

4 early signs of COPD to know of

Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is a progressive lung condition affecting millions worldwide. It is the third most significant cause of death in patients, claiming more than 3 million lives in 2019. However, it often remains undiagnosed until it reaches advanced stages, making early detection crucial for better management and improved quality of life. To do so, exploring the early signs of COPD and taking the necessary actions to mitigate them is essential. Chronic cough Chronic cough is among the earliest indicators of COPD. The persistent cough is commonly dismissed as a symptom of a minor infection or inhalation of allergens. It is typical for the cough to linger around for months. The primary cause for this persistent cough is the prolonged exposure of the respiratory system to chronic inflammation or irritation. Long-term exposure to environmental irritants like chemicals, dust, and other air pollutants can trigger it. Increased mucus COPD patients experience increased mucus production, often accompanied by persistent coughing. The mucus produced in such patients is thicker and stickier than in minor infections. Usually, the lungs produce mucus to protect the airway against irritants. The mucus traps pollutants that enter the respiratory system and eliminates them. When exposed to high levels of irritants, the body produces more mucus to fight off the invaders.
5 warning signs of heart attack that should not be ignored
health

5 warning signs of heart attack that should not be ignored

As per research, about 800,000 people in the country suffer from a heart attack yearly. Given the severity of this cardiovascular disease, it is important for everyone to have basic knowledge of its early signs and symptoms. Like for any ailment, the human body shows early warning signs of heart attack too, and if recognized in time, it can help save one’s life. Here are some early signs of a heart attack one shouldn’t ignore. Pain in the upper body One of the earliest signs of a heart attack is experiencing discomfort or throbbing pain in the arms, neck, back, or jaw. Sometimes, this discomfort may even be felt in the upper part of the abdomen. Breathlessness and tightness in the chest If one suddenly experiences heavy breathing or breathlessness as if they have just run a marathon (when they have not), it might be a serious sign of a heart attack. Sometimes, the shortness of breath may also be felt along with a tightness in the chest. In such a scenario, one may need immediate medical attention. Indigestion Sometimes, the early signs of a heart attack can also include indigestion, nausea, and vomiting. These may not necessarily indicate a heart attack but they should not be dismissed.
5 common mistakes to avoid with dental implants
health

5 common mistakes to avoid with dental implants

Dental implants are tooth-like structures that are inserted by certified dental surgeons into the patient’s jawbone. In most cases, these are custom-made according to the patient’s needs. Furthermore, implants are suggested when patients lose one or more teeth. It aids in improving their chewing function. However, it is important to avoid certain mistakes in order to ensure a successful outcome. Therefore, here are some common mistakes to avoid with dental implants. Choosing inexperienced dentists Dental procedures, especially implants, are complex. If a patient chooses an inexperienced dentist for the procedure, it can result in certain mistakes that can seriously affect the patient’s health. For instance, if the implant is placed in the wrong position, it may not bond with the jaw bone, leading to further discomfort and issues. Hence, patients are suggested to choose qualified and experienced dentists for the procedure. Not communicating about personal medical history One of the most significant mistakes to avoid when working with dentists for dental implants is not informing the medical personnel about one’s medical history. This is because some health conditions like cancer, uncontrolled diabetes, and gum disease can affect the outcome. So, patients must ensure that they communicate their complete medical history during the initial evaluation.
Understanding atrial fibrillation and how it contributes to silent strokes
health

Understanding atrial fibrillation and how it contributes to silent strokes

Atrial fibrillation (AFib) is a health condition that disrupts the heart’s natural pumping rhythm, causing blood to pool in the atria and increasing the likelihood of clot formation. When these clots travel to the brain, they cause silent strokes, which often occur without noticeable symptoms. Silent strokes can lead to cognitive decline and dementia over time. Therefore, understanding the link between AFib and silent strokes helps with early diagnosis and timely management of complications. Atrial fibrillation Atrial fibrillation is an irregular heart rhythm that occurs when the heart’s upper chambers (atria) quiver instead of contracting properly. This irregularity can lead to blood pooling in the atria, forming clots. A clot breaking loose and reaching the brain can block a blood vessel, leading to a stroke. One should know certain things about Afib. It is one of the most prevalent cardiac arrhythmias, affecting approximately 2-3% of the global population. Its prevalence increases with age, making it more common among older adults. Some individuals may have AFib without experiencing any noticeable symptoms. It is known as “silent AFib,” making it crucial to conduct regular heart monitoring, especially in high-risk groups. Silent strokes Silent strokes, otherwise known as asymptomatic cerebral infarctions, occur without apparent symptoms.
8 foods to eat while healing from copd signs
health

8 foods to eat while healing from copd signs

For individuals facing the challenges of COPD (Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease), finding the right foods can make a significant difference in their journey toward healing and improved well-being. A tailored nutrition approach guided by healthcare professionals can help those with COPD live an improved quality of life. This article explores specific foods that are important in promoting healing and offer support in managing COPD symptoms. Some of the top foods are: Broccoli, spinach, and kale Incorporating nutrient-rich vegetables into one’s daily meals can be vital in managing COPD symptoms. Vegetables like broccoli, spinach, kale, and carrots are rich in vitamins, minerals, and antioxidants. These essential nutrients help reduce inflammation, support the immune system, and improve respiratory health. Salmon and mackerel Salmon and mackerel, rich in omega-3 fatty acids, can be incredibly beneficial for people with COPD. These healthy fats have anti-inflammatory properties that may assist in reducing inflammation in the airways. Individuals with COPD can experience improved lung function and easier breathing by including these fish in their meal plans. Chicken, turkey, and tofu (lean proteins) Lean protein sources like skinless chicken and tofu are necessary for tissue repair and maintenance. Consuming these proteins helps strengthen muscles, a crucial aspect of managing COPD symptoms.

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Air filters – types and cost
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Air filters – types and cost

When it comes to air quality, there cannot be any compromises. This is why it is important to figure out what type of air filter matches your needs perfectly. This can be done by understanding the various types of air filters and how much each costs. You can always cut down on costs by shopping online and using air filter coupons. But first, let’s take a look at the different types of air filters. HEPA filters High-efficiency particulate air (HEPA) filters are the most reliable and effective ones among the lot. They filter out 99.97 percent of dust, mold, and other particulate matter from the air. They are the best option for people dealing with respiratory disorders. However, you may need a professional to install the filter. HEPA filters cost anywhere from $10 to $75, depending on the size and quality of the product. UV filters As the name suggests, these filters use ultraviolet light to destroy any germs, viruses, or bacteria in the air. However, they are not quite effective in keeping out dust particles and allergens. Therefore, they are often used in combination with another filter. They cost anywhere between $60 to $225. They can be hazardous to the human body in the long run.
Top 5 sources for car rentals
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Top 5 sources for car rentals

If you’re planning on visiting your grandmother in Orlando or have simply decided to take a trip to Vegas, you will be needing a rental car. However, there are a million different options out there making it difficult to trust a service. Fortunately, some websites help you find a trustworthy rental company, compare rates, and book directly. Let’s take a look at where to find affordable and reliable rental cars. Rentalcars.com If you’re looking for cheap and trustworthy rental cars, this is the site to visit. After filling in details like pick up and drop location and time, you will be presented with a list of rental car services across different platforms. From car rental compare rates to a wide selection ranging from basic cars to fancy ones, rentalcars.com will help you find the best ride. CarRentals.com CarRentals.com helps you select from different cars such as sedans, convertible, and even sports cars. You can easily compare rates, filter your options, and book the perfect car for you in three easy steps. You can also add rental protection for around $10/day at the checkout. Unfortunately, drivers under the age of 25 and over 70 may have to pay a surcharge. KAYAK You can rent everything from hatchbacks and SUVs to luxury models and pick-up trucks at KAYAK.
4 simple tips to choose healthy dog food
pets

4 simple tips to choose healthy dog food

The pet food in your cart is not going to be healthy just because the packaging claims it is. Instead of relying on what the advertisements tell you is good for your pet, you should research and understand what is actually beneficial for them. If you want to keep your canine healthy and happy, select the best dog food at your disposal. Here are four factors to consider the next time you’re shopping for dog food. Be mindful of their age The most important factor to consider while choosing the best dog food is your pet’s health. You should pick food age-appropriate food for your pooch, both in quality and quantity. Experts say that puppies need food packed with protein and vital minerals, while an adult dog’s diet should depend on their daily activities. Older dogs should be served low-calorie food that’s rich in fiber, protein, and fatty acids. Meet their nutritional needs Meeting your pet’s nutritional requirements is essential to keep them healthy. One of the things to keep in mind while looking for the best dog food is the type, quality, and amount of nutrients it contains. Professionals say selecting foods with all essential macro and micronutrients is the right way to go.
4 best AT&T prepaid plans
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4 best AT&T prepaid plans

Every mobile carrier, including AT&T, tends to focus on their postpaid customers. They’re not unfair in doing so, as postpaid customers contribute more money to their accounts than prepaid ones. They’re also a constant source of cash, although that doesn’t mean there’s absolutely nothing on the table for prepaid customers. Focusing only on AT&T, the carrier has introduced some excellent plans for prepaid customers.  One-year 8GB plan for $300 upfront Picking a plan every month can be frustrating, so why not stick with one for the entire year? If it sounds right to you, go with this AT&T prepaid cell phone plan. It is one of AT&T’s best budget options, costing only $300. You’ll get 8GB of data every month, which is more than sufficient for browsing and a bit of streaming. In case you underuse data in a month, it gets carried forward to the next month. 15GB plan for $40 per month $40 is a decent amount to pay for 15GB of data. While it may not be enough for heavy streaming or playing games, it is enough for little to heavy browsing and enjoying music. According to estimates by AT&T, 15GB is enough for over 1,000 emails, 400 hours of streaming music, 40 hours of web browsing, and 15 hours of SD video streaming combined.
3 best no-contract cell phone plans
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3 best no-contract cell phone plans

Several popular networks in the country offer 4G and 5G coverage to cell phone users of all ages. However, the myriad of options can make it challenging for you to choose the best plan. Factors like the number of minutes, texts, available data, connectivity, cost, and exclusive services are a few things you must consider. To help you get started, we have scoured the internet to find the three best no-contract mobile phone plans. Mint Mobile If you are looking for an unlimited data no-contract cell phone plan, Mint Mobile offers you one for $30/month. You can switch to their network and still keep your current number. The plan is also compatible with unlocked phones, so you can bring your own device to avail of the offer. But ensure to check out the official Mint Mobile website to understand network coverage and make sure your area code offers the best speeds for downloads. If you prefer limited data, worry not! Mint also features 4GB, 10GB, and 15GB plans starting at just $15/month. Boost Mobile If you are scouting for a network that supports your 5G device, this one is for you. Boost Mobile offers a sweet 5G-enabled no-contract cell phone plan.

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Top 5 cell phones for seniors
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Top 5 cell phones for seniors

Are you planning to buy a cell phone for a senior family member? Make sure to select something that caters to their various needs. In general, cell phones for seniors must be easy to use, feature large screens, and have reliable safety features. Fortunately, there are a few cell phones in the market that fit the bill. Herein, let’s take a brief look at some of the best cell phones available for seniors today. Lively Smart Lively, previously known as GreatCall, is a company that specializes in making cell phones for seniors. Lively Smart’s large, 6.2-inch display makes reading, typing, and video calling easy and fun. The phone features an emergency alert button, which on activation allows Lively to get the individual’s location and send help. It also comes with features that enable seniors to book a taxi with a touch of a button and speak to healthcare professionals at any time. RAZ Memory Cell Phone The RAZ Memory Cell Phone is designed to help people with dementia, Alzheimer’s, and other forms of intellectual disabilities stay connected. It has a single, always-on screen that includes large photos and names of contacts, a button to call 911, time, and battery level.
Top VPN services of 2021 offering maximum online privacy
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Top VPN services of 2021 offering maximum online privacy

A virtual private network or VPN is one of the most useful tools for privacy that can be used at its best when using a public network, as it makes data tracking difficult due to encrypted connection. A VPN connection hides one’s IP address, which prevents companies from keeping tabs on your browsing history. So, if you are thinking of ramping up your privacy setting while using the internet, the following VPN services of 2021 can help you stay off the radar. NordVPN It is one of the best VPN services of 2021 that offers its services for both mobiles and desktops. The VPN service offers not only AES-256 standard encryption but also a double VPN system that encrypts the internet traffic twice. This ensures stronger network impermeability when using public networks. NordVPN is one of those VPN services with at least 5,000 servers in more than 60 countries, ensuring uninterrupted privacy. Moreover, it allows up to six simultaneous connections. Some of its other features include DNS leak protection, proxy extensions on Firefox and Chrome browsers, and kill switches. It is also one of the few VPN servers that accepts Bitcoin as payment. CyberGhost If you are looking for unblocked worldwide access to streaming services like Netflix, Hulu, and iPlayer, CyberGhost is the VPN service for you.
4 tactical boots you can buy in 2021
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4 tactical boots you can buy in 2021

Tactical boots are designed for professionals who need to move fast and be light on their feet. They are not just used by military personnel. And while out to buy a pair of shoes, everyone knows what size or color of boots they’re looking for, but do you know which brand will meet all your needs? To help you, here are some of the best tactical boots you can buy in 2021. Bates Men’s 8″ Ultra-Lites Tactical Sport Side-Zip Boots Bates Men’s Ultra Lites are one of the best lightweight tactical boots you can buy in 2021. The side zipper makes them easy and incredibly comfortable to put on or pull off, and that sure comes in handy if you’re in a rush. The soles are slip-resistant, so you’re safe on smooth and slippery surfaces. Additionally, these military boots have removable inserts to adjust the cushioning and comfort according to your preference. Under Armour Valsetz RTS Under Armour’s UA Valsetz RTS Tactical Boots are lightweight, durable, and slip-resistant. The textile upper and synthetic leather make them comfortable and offer great support. The Ultralight Micro G™ EVA midsole offers excellent cushioning for the feet. Under Armour has been a star in the world of athletes, so you can rest assured that their tactical boots are comfortable and reliable.
3 best anti-radiation phone cases
smartphone

3 best anti-radiation phone cases

Radio frequency waves and electromagnetic waves have been identified as one of the major health risk factors for humans. With most of the population relying on smart phones and wireless internet for survival, the amount of radiation these devices emit is a cause for concern. But you can invest in a decent anti-radiation cell phone case and prevent such radiation from affecting your health with long-term use. Here are our top three picks: 1. DefenderShield DefenderShield is one of the best anti-radiation cell phone cases you can buy that is also approved by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC). The case manages to block out 99.99 percent of electromagnetic radiation. The product is designed with multiple layers of shielding without it affecting the device’s ability to send and receive a proper signal. Their proprietary DefenderShield technology additionally blocks 5G wireless, WiFi, and Bluetooth radiation. The material also manages to dissipate any heat within the layers. DefenderShield anti-radiation phone cases are designed for popular Apple and Android smartphones. 2. SafeSleeve SafeSleeve is another popular alternative that is certified by the FCC. The anti-radiation cell phone case is designed to counter 99 percent of direct 5G, WiFi, and cellular radiation. Additionally, the materials are designed to bounce back at least 92 percent of extremely low frequency (ELF) radiation adsorbed form batteries, AC power adapters, and other external devices.
Top 4 ERP software to choose from
software

Top 4 ERP software to choose from

Enterprise Resource Planning (ERP) software are programs that help businesses keep track of and ensure that their customer orders are in place and the data is easily accessible. The program helps better manage aspects like eCommerce, business intelligence, CRM, and marketing automation. Since it is so crucial for the smooth running of a business, it is necessary you choose the absolute best. Oracle NetSuite Oracle NetSuite is one of the highest-rated ERP software available in the market. The program is favored by a major population of business owners across the globe. NetSuite is designed for ease of use and promotes growth, as it provides you complete control with customization options. Oracle is suitable for everyone, right from bookstores to fashion businesses that need an ERP system. You could take a free product demo from the brand to know more about the program. However, since there is customization involved, the website does not mention a price. Microsoft Dynamics Microsoft Dynamics 365 is a cloud-based accounting system that works optimally in combination with Microsoft Office 365. The program can just as easily be synchronized with other Microsoft products and is very easy to navigate. The business version of the software is equipped with better, faster, and more efficient features.
3 popular monthly fashion box subscriptions for men
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3 popular monthly fashion box subscriptions for men

Do you need an effortless way to shop for the latest fashion and apparel? Your prayers have been answered with monthly fashion boxes for men and women that are delivered home. A seasoned stylist can curate a box of clothing and apparel to fill your wardrobe based on a simple questionnaire. The subscription service is also an affordable way to pay for fashion that you like to explore. You can create a custom wardrobe in a few simple steps with these three top services. Stich fix Stitch fix is a unique no-subscription service that curates monthly fashion boxes for men and women. The process begins with an elaborate questionnaire to help the expert understand your clothing and styling needs. Based on the answers given, stylists at the company will curate the best design, fit, and apparel preference for your wardrobe. Customization is one of the critical features of this service so expect a personal style experience with every order. Stylists handpick the best choices for a service fee of just $20, and you can try out all options before making a purchase. Stitch fix features order on-demand as well, so you don’t have to wait around for scheduled box deliveries necessarily.