Cholesterol can be understood as some waxy substance in your blood, which is needed by the body to build its healthy cells. However, when the cholesterol increases to an uncontrolled level, it can put you at risk of heart diseases. Furthermore, as a result of high cholesterol, there can be a fatty deposit in your body’s blood vessels. Because of this, it gets hard for the blood to flow through the arteries. What can high cholesterol lead to and how does it develop? At times, the deposits break down and lead to a clot formation, which can either result in a stroke or a heart attack. Though high cholesterol mainly develops as a result of your unhealthy lifestyle choices, it can be inherited too. However, it is both treatable and preventable. With the inclusion of regular exercises, a nutritious diet, and proper medication, you can reduce cholesterol levels. Symptoms As such, there are no definitive symptoms of high cholesterol. The only real way to diagnose it is via a blood test. Causes Cholesterol is attached to proteins and is transported into the body via the blood. This amalgamation of cholesterol and protein is known as a lipoprotein. Depending upon what the lipoprotein carries, there are two different types of cholesterol. These include: HDL i.e. High-density lipoprotein It is good cholesterol and helps carry the surplus cholesterol and transport it back to the liver. LDL i.e. Low-density lipoprotein It is the bad cholesterol, which carries the particles around the body. Over time, this cholesterol accumulates in the walls of the arteries and makes them narrow and hard. To determine the presence of triglycerides in your blood, you’ll have to undergo a test known as the lipid profile. In people who have high fat (triglyceride) levels, the probability of heart disease is more.

Aging is a natural process. All of us grow older with time, which is why it is crucial to lead a healthy lifestyle. This way, old age does not bring too many problems along. From pain in the joints to suffering from forgetfulness, there are a bunch of things that are associated with aging. Types of aging Cellular aging The aging process of cells is dependent on the frequency with which they replicate. A cell can replicate itself around 50 times, and after that, the genetic material cannot be copied properly. This happens because of shortened telomeres. Hormonal aging Hormones play a huge part in the aging process, more so when a person is in their childhood or adolescence. The levels of hormones keep fluctuating as long as we live. Puberty results in the formation of large pores and acne. As we get older, the change in hormones contributes to the formation of dry skin. Metabolic aging Cells are responsible for transforming food into energy throughout the day. The byproducts produced during this process can be quite harmful. The metabolizing process causes damage to the body. Some are of the opinion that the slow-down of the metabolic process through methods like calorie restriction could result in slowing down the process of aging. Early warning signs of aging Sunspots Sunspots, also referred to as age spots, are spots found on the surface of the skin. These are caused when one is exposed to the sun for years. These are hyper-pigmented spots that form on the back of one’s hands, face, or forearms. Most people suffer from this condition after they turn 40. Gaunt hands With time, the uppermost layer of the skin becomes thin. When this happens, the protein content in the skin that gives it a structure starts withering away.

If you’re new to the cooking game, hate cooking, or simply wish to avoid grocery shopping, meal kits will be a game-changer. These ready-to-make kits come with all the ingredients and cooking instructions that are easy to help you whip up restaurant-quality meals at home. If you’re looking for fresh meal kits delivery services that meet your nutritional needs (vegan, keto, or paleo), we have compiled a list of the most popular ones. Sunbasket One of the things that set apart Sunbasket from other meal kit services is that their produce is organic, non-GMO, and nutritionist-approved. Additionally, they use eco-friendly and 100% recyclable material for packaging. You can choose between 6-18 organic types of meal recipes every week that include vegan, paleo, vegetarian, and gluten-free. Sunbasket charges about $72 for three meals for two people and approximately $145 for a four-person meal, with additional shipping charges. Factor Factor, formerly known as Factor 75, has a wide range of ready-to-eat meals that you can put in the microwave and enjoy. This service has a wide range of vegetarian, gluten-free, keto, low-carb, paleo, and dairy-free options. Plus, they use only organic produce, grass-fed meat, and certified seafood. Factor charges about $11 to $15 per meal based on quantity. Weekly meals start from $60 for four meals for a single person. Daily Harvest From premade soups, ready-to-blend vegan smoothies, and grain bowls to various frozen foods, Daily Harvest has many options to make your weekly meals look good. This is only a plant-based meal delivery service and a great choice for solo snackers. However, some items require a liquid base that would have to be purchased separately. Items are priced between $6 to $8 per cup, and the subscription is priced at about $54 for nine weekly items. Yumble If you are a working parent that has fussy kids, Yumble is a good option for them.

Pulmonary arterial hypertension or PAH is high blood pressure in the lungs. PAH occurs in the small arteries, and it obstructs blood flow in the lungs, which causes a series of symptoms such as COPD (chronic obstructive pulmonary disease) and asthma. PAH is a rare condition, and only one to two out of a million people in our country suffer from it. Apart from medications, the following nutrition tips can provide relief from PAH symptoms. Eat more garlic One of the major causes of pulmonary arterial hypertension is restricted blood flow in the lungs. Garlic contains a compound called allicin, which helps widen blood vessels and ease the restricted blood flow, thereby controlling blood pressure. You can eat both raw or cooked garlic to reap its benefit. However, doctors recommend eating raw garlic within an hour of chopping to relieve the benefits of allicin. Avoid stimulants Stimulants that worsen pulmonary arterial hypertension symptoms may be hiding in plain sight. For instance, caffeinated beverages such as coffee, carbonated beverages, and other stimulants like alcohol can aggravate PAH. So, doctors recommend replacing the morning “cuppa joe” with freshly squeezed fruit juices and that peg of scotch with a mocktail. Cutting back on these stimulants can also help PAH patients sleep better. Get more iron Doctors suggest pulmonary arterial hypertension can be seen more in patients with low iron levels in their blood. Iron can directly affect the pulmonary vasoconstrictor response, which is crucial in determining the severity of PAH. Iron deficiency can increase the risk of PAH, thus having iron-rich meals every day can prevent the worsening of PAH. Doctors recommend incorporating red meat, beans, dark leafy greens in daily meals. The body absorbs iron more efficiently if it is supplemented by vitamin C. Some foods rich in vitamin C include tomatoes, citrus fruits, bell peppers, and broccoli.

As far as charity is concerned, people usually think of it in linear terms. Donations help those in need, and it’s normal to believe this is the only goal. But many people are unaware that there is so much more to the act of giving. Lending a helping hand is only one of many benefits of making charitable donations. Individuals who share their wealth may also have rewarding personal, emotional, and mental experiences. Helping those in need One of the biggest benefits of donating money is helping those in need. The world isn’t perfect or even fair, for that matter. What makes a difference is a surplus sharing with those who don’t have privileges to bank on. Providing a positive experience A National Institute of Health study found that people who chose to donate would activate the pleasure centers in their brains. While there is more research to be conducted to understand this link, sharing is an undeniably satisfying experience. Taxes are deductible Donating to charity also comes with the benefit of a tax deduction. If you’ve contributed to an IRS-approved non-profit organization, you’ll get a write-off on the donation sum while filing returns. Setting an example Donating to a local or international community allows you to set a good example for the youth in the community. After all, children do what they see. Making an impact Charities impact the community at large by uplifting those in need of help. Donations provide a better standard and quality of life, access to education, and even healthcare to improve the community’s standing. Making life more meaningful Contributing and sharing your wealth allows you to meet and mingle with other like-minded individuals. You get to share your passions and bring about a positive influence on the issues at hand. Helping everyone feel happy Spending your hard-earned money on yourself is thrilling, but sharing your wealth with others can also feel rewarding.

Period cramps are a result of uterine muscles contracting to shed tissue. The contraction momentarily cuts off the oxygen supply to the uterus, which releases the chemicals that cause pain. Women all around the world face varying degrees of period cramps that interfere with their ability to function normally. But eating certain types of foods and drinks can reduce the pain and provide more comfort during that time of the month. Water Hydration is said to help alleviate period pain. A study showed that women who drank more water used fewer painkillers and reported less severe cramps. Turmeric milk Turmeric added to milk has traditionally been used by many cultures to relieve PMS symptoms and regularize periods. This anti-inflammatory spice stimulates blood flow in the pelvic region and has an antispasmodic effect. Bananas Bananas are rich in fiber and magnesium, easy to digest and help regulate bowel movement. They can help one feel less bloated and reduce the severity of cramps. Oranges A powerhouse of vitamin C and antioxidants, oranges can reduce menstrual cramps. The fruit also has a high water content, thus helping with hydration. Fish Fish is a good source of protein, omega-3 fatty acids, and iron. All of these nutrients minimize menstruation discomfort and help improve mood. Ginger tea Warm ginger tea has anti-inflammatory properties that soothe muscle aches and reduce the sensation of nausea, bloating, and vomiting. Chamomile tea The antispasmodic properties of hot chamomile tea can ease muscle spasms and soothe one’s nervous system. Avocado Rich in anti-inflammatory fats, magnesium and potassium, avocados are a cramping superfood that also provide essential nutrients to keep one’s energy levels up. Dark chocolate Dark chocolate is rich in antioxidants, fiber, iron, zinc, magnesium, and potassium. Along with providing energy, it also alleviates pain and controls cravings. Eggs Eggs are another superfood packed with nutrients that lessen menstruation pain and prolong the feeling of fullness.

Coupons are an excellent way to save money. They can help you save big on just about everything from food to appliances, clothing, and more, at various stores and restaurants around the country. If you’re thinking you can’t use them post-expiry, we have news for you! There are many tips and tricks to ensure you can make the most of your coupons even after their expiration. Don’t cut off or hide the expiration date Don’t hide the expiration date by crossing it or cutting it out, because stores are less likely to accept a coupon without an expiration date. Check if the coupon has a grace period Several manufacturers have a grace period of a few days on their coupons. Check the fine print or research the coupon online before throwing it out just because it has reached its expiration date. Check if the store has a grace period Many stores are relaxed about coupon expiration dates, and may be willing to accept it even a few days after. Stores such as Bed, Bath & Beyond, Michael’s, Staples, and Petsmart are well-known for this option. However, they are more likely to accept their own coupons over those from a manufacturer. Call the store in advance to find out whether they would be willing to accept any kind of expired coupons. Other stores and restaurants that also accept expired coupons for a few days include Arby’s, Bath and Body Works, Burger King, Buy Buy Baby, Culvers, CVS Pharmacy, Harris Teeters, and PetCo. Ask for a coupon exchange If the store is strict about using expired coupons, ask the cashier if they have any exchanges available. Deals are generally recycled throughout the week, and cashiers at some stores may be able to help you out with a valid coupon. Donate your coupons to overseas military families If you’ve tried all means at your disposal but are unable to get your coupons to work, you can consider donating them to military families.

Effective pest control is critical to maintaining a healthy and comfortable living environment. Pests can cause a lot of damage to a home’s foundation, floors, and walls. It helps eliminate insects impacting the house’s integrity and its occupants’ health. Effective pest management is a multifaceted endeavor that requires diligence, preventative measures, and, at times, the expertise of professionals. By sidestepping these pitfalls, individuals can create a pest-free environment that promotes health, comfort, and peace of mind. Neglecting preventative measures One of the most common pitfalls in pest control is underestimating the power of prevention. Waiting until pests become a visible problem can lead to a more challenging and costly battle. Simple steps like sealing cracks, ensuring proper drainage, and maintaining a clean living space can go a long way in deterring pests from entering in the first place. Overlooking regular inspections Regular inspections are the cornerstone of effective pest control. Unfortunately, many homeowners skip this crucial step, only seeking professional help when the situation has escalated. Implementing routine checks, both indoors and outdoors, allows for early detection and intervention, minimizing the potential damage caused by pests. Improper identification of pests Misidentifying pests is a common oversight in pest control. Different pests require different approaches for effective elimination. Using the wrong treatment method for a particular pest can be not only ineffective but may also be detrimental to the environment or even harmful to humans and pets. Misusing chemicals and treatments Resorting harsh chemicals without adequately understanding their application can have unintended consequences. Overusing or misusing pesticides can pose health risks to residents and pets and lead to environmental harm. It’s crucial to follow label instructions meticulously and, if you need help, seek professional advice on proper application. Ignoring natural predators In nature, many pests have natural predators that help keep their populations in check.

Be it for college visits, business travel, love for history and art, or the delicious food, several thousands of people visit Boston annually. Now, the good thing about Boston is that, much like most of the other aspects, the city has some of the finest range of hotels. Of course, you can find a hotel to cater to your budget, but if luxury is what you seek, our selection of the top four luxury hotels in Boston will certainly excite you. Four Seasons Hotel Known for its incredible health club, phenomenal service, a beautiful park-front location, clean pool, 273 spacious and luxurious rooms, and an iconic restaurant serving lip-smacking delicacies, the Four Seasons Hotel in Boston attains a well-deserved number one spot in this list. The guest room bathrooms are also great, superior to the ones you’ll find in some other top-notch hotels of Boston. Nonetheless, the service you get is unprecedented. The hotel staff pays attention to the minutest details and is proactively helpful. Furthermore, the iconic location of the hotel, right next to the city’s Public Garden, only adds to its charm and beauty. Mandarin Oriental Founded in the year 2008, the beautiful Mandarin Oriental is rightfully a close second on this list. With an aim to do everything better and bigger, the hotel has fairly lived up to its own dream. From fine dining to the luxurious rooms, and the spa, everything about the hotel is much ahead of its time. Its contemporary guest rooms are by far the largest in Boston. The hotel has deep tubs, luxury fittings, 42-inch LED TVs, and marble showers. Additionally, the spa of the hotel is the most luxurious and the largest in Boston. The hotel staff is helpful, and the service that you get here is fantastic. It has two of the best dining places in the city – French L’Espalier and Asana restaurant.

Gout is a type of arthritis that can affect any person. Generally, it affects the big toe’s base joint and may appear as sudden and severe pain, redness and tenderness, and swelling. Symptoms may appear and disappear at the slightest trigger, but luckily, there are several ways to prevent flares and manage the symptoms. Symptoms Generally, the symptoms of this ailment occur in the middle of the night and include the following: Severe joint pain Although gout generally affects the big toe joint, it may affect any other joint too. Some other affected parts may be wrists, ankles, fingers, elbows, and knees. Individuals usually suffer from severe pain between the first four and 12 hours of its onset. Limited motion range As the disorder progresses, you may lose the normal motion in the affected joints. Lingering discomfort Even after the severest pain passes away, you may feel the discomfort for several days or even weeks. Over a period, the attacks may affect more joints and result in increased discomfort. Redness and inflammation The affected joints are often warm, swollen, red, and tender. Causes Initially, gout is the result of excessive uric acid in the blood, known as hyperuricemia. The higher levels result in the accumulation of urate crystals in the affected joints, which cause severe pain and inflammation. The body produces uric acid when purines (substances that are naturally found in a human body) are broken down. Purines are also found in some foods, such as seafood, poultry, steak, and organ meats. Alcoholic beverages like beer and other drinks with a higher content of fructose (fruit sugar) also promote higher production of uric acid in the body. Under normal conditions, the body passes the uric acid via urine through the kidneys. However, sometimes the body may produce an excessive amount of uric acid or the kidneys do not flush out a sufficient amount of the acid.

Important information you need to know about teeth whitening toothpastes Teeth staining and sensitivity are two of the most common issues present today. However, they are equally easily overlooked by a majority of people. While there are in-office treatments, over the counter medications, and other methods available to deal with these issues, the most convenient way is brushing. Although brushing might not give you instant results, it helps in putting up a consistent fight. Considering how neither sensitivity nor teeth staining can be cured once and for all, affordable teeth-whitening toothpaste for sensitive teeth is your best bet. Research has suggested that regular brushing with such specifically designed toothpastes helps remove surface stains caused by the foods we eat. This, however, does not help with the natural color of your teeth or the discoloration present beneath the surface. What you should know about teeth whitening toothpastes Whitening toothpastes can be abrasive, and they work by polishing the stains off. Some other types contain chemicals like peroxides that break down the stains. If you are worried that these might harm your teeth, you can opt for products that have items like charcoal or activated carbon and zinc citrate in them. Some other whitening toothpastes contain blue covarine. Instead of cleaning out the stains, blue covarine coats the teeth and provides instant whiteness. These, however, are superficial results and don’t actually help the staining issue. Which whitening toothpaste is the best? So if you haven’t been using teeth whitening toothpastes to get rid of teeth stains, we’re here to help. Given below is a list of affordable teeth-whitening toothpastes for sensitive teeth so that you know which are the best ones in the market. Colgate® Optic White® Contrary to most commonly available whitening toothpastes, this one works on intrinsic stains along with surface stains.

Cruises are popular these days. They allow you to sit back and relax while exploring the oceans and visiting new destinations. But, most cruise trips turn out to be very expensive. These high costs can be attributed to high cruise fares, onboard and port spending, and even travel. But, what if we tell you that there are affordable cruise lines that do not break the bank? Read on to find out more. Carnival Cruise Line If you’re looking for a budget-friendly affordable cruise line, this one fits the bill. The Carnival Cruise Line was founded in 1971. The popular cruise line offers cruises to almost 425 locations, including the Caribbean, The Bahamas, Europe, Canada, Hawaii, Australia, and even the Panama Canal. The best part about the Carnival Cruise Line is its offerings. Living on one of their ships is like attending a huge Carnival out at sea. What sweetens this deal is the fact that the 24 ships of this cruise line are as affordable as $229 per night for one person. Carnival Cruises are more family-oriented, and they ensure that they provide the best entertainment for all age groups. Princess Cruises And much like its parent company Carnival, Princess Cruises provides the best cruise experience at minimal costs. The 14-ship cruise line has itineraries to multiple destinations, including Alaska, the Caribbean, Mexico, and even Europe. Their cruise trips can range anywhere between one day to 72 days, and they also offer travelers the option to explore the end destinations. While onboard, the cruise line provides travelers with multiple onboard activities, poolside screenings, magic shows, and even a stage show of the popular “The Voice of the Ocean.” Princess Cruises are exclusively for 18 and older individuals. Norwegian Cruises If you’re looking for a fun yet relaxing cruise experience, this one is for you.