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Cholesterol has gotten a bad rap not only because of its association with heart disease but also because it is silent about how it affects different parts of the body. But what most of us need to know is that not all cholesterol is bad. There are two types of it, the first is “good” cholesterol and the second is “bad”. The bad kind can lead to many diseases, including peripheral artery disease (PAD).

In this regard, and for further clarification, the specialized medical website “onlymyhealth” published a report in which a consultant cardiologist, Jaideep Menon, at Amrita Hospital, Kochi, revealed how high cholesterol affects the body and its association with PAD, and the symptoms that can appear in the legs.

How does high cholesterol affect the body?

According to Dr. Menon, cholesterol is a type of fat that is naturally produced by the liver and found in some foods. Its functions include producing hormones, vitamin D, and bile acids that aid digestion. However, too much cholesterol can be dangerous and increase your risk of heart disease.

“Cholesterol is transported in the blood by lipoproteins, which are made up of proteins and fats,” Menon explains. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) is often called the bad cholesterol because it can increase your risk of coronary artery disease by contributing to the buildup of fatty deposits or plaques in your arteries. It can simply lead to its blockage. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) is good cholesterol because it helps remove excess cholesterol from the bloodstream. So having too much LDL cholesterol in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease and other cardiovascular problems. While high levels of HDL cholesterol may be protective against these conditions. Therefore, it is important to maintain healthy levels of both types of cholesterol.

Association between high cholesterol and peripheral artery disease (PAD)

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a condition in which the arteries that supply blood to the leg and foot become blocked, mainly due to a buildup of fatty deposits called plaques.

“Low-density lipoprotein cholesterol can build up in artery walls, forming narrowing and atherosclerotic plaques,” says Menon. And over time, this narrowing can limit blood flow to the legs and feet, causing pain and other symptoms associated with peripheral artery disease.

Signs of peripheral arterial disease in the feet

Symptoms of PAD can vary in people, depending on the severity of the condition. They may include:

Pain or cramping in the legs or feet, especially during physical activity or exercise, also known as claudication

Numbness or weakness in the legs

Feeling of cold or tingling in the legs or feet

Wounds on the feet or legs that do not heal or heal very slowly

Weak or absent pulse in the feet or legs

Constant leg or foot pain even when the person is resting

How to reduce the risk of high cholesterol

Here are some lifestyle changes you can make to lower your cholesterol:

Maintain a healthy diet: A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean sources of protein.

Avoid foods rich in saturated and trans fats, such as fried foods and fatty meats

Exercising regularly: Brisk walking, running, cycling or swimming can help increase levels of HDL (good) cholesterol and reduce levels of LDL cholesterol.

Maintain a healthy weight

– Quit Smoking

Control stress

Get regular cholesterol checks: The American Heart Association (AHA) recommends that all adults age 20 and older get their cholesterol checked every four to six years as long as their risk remains low.

High cholesterol is a silent disease that usually doesn’t cause any symptoms, which is why it’s often difficult to track. And the key is to be aware. Priority should be given to having regular health check-ups, testing your cholesterol levels, and keeping them in good shape with healthy foods.

It is important to keep your body hydrated when it is very hot with a heat wave. But did you know that it is equally important to keep your stomach healthy because heat can be hard on your digestive system? Dehydration and heat can lead to constipation, bloating, and other digestive problems. To prevent these problems, adding certain foods to your diet can help keep your gut relaxed and healthy during a heat wave, according to a new report published by the specialized medical website “onlymyhealth”.

Foods that keep your stomach cool:

1 – watermelon

Watermelon is perfect for fighting heat because it contains a lot of water, it keeps you hydrated and helps you avoid constipation. In addition, the fiber in watermelon aids digestion and encourages regular bowel movements. Also, vitamin A and vitamin C, which are essential for maintaining a healthy stomach lining, are abundant in this fruit.

2 – cucumber

Cucumbers are another hydrating food that is perfect for keeping your tummy comfortable during a heat wave. It is hydrating and rich in nutrients, which promotes digestion and keeps you hydrated. Erepsin, another enzyme found in cucumbers, helps break down proteins and aids in the absorption of nutrients.

3 – Coconut water

Coconut water is a perfect drink to beat the summer heat. It contains a high percentage of electrolytes that help you stay hydrated during the heat wave. It also contains potassium, which helps maintain regular bowel movements and avoid constipation. Lauric acid, which has antibacterial and antiviral properties and helps support a healthy stomach, is another ingredient in coconut water.

4 – yogurt

A diet rich in probiotics such as yogurt can support gut health during a heat wave.

Good bacteria, called probiotics, aid in digestion because they are found in your stomach. In addition, yogurt contains a lot of calcium; Which supports a healthy stomach lining and encourages regular bowel movements.

5 – milk

You must add curd to your daily routine if you want to keep your bowels relaxed in the summer season. It helps to promote the health of the digestive system and rid you of its problems. It also contains probiotics and essential vitamins and minerals that help normalize body temperature.

6 – ginger

If you are dealing with stomach issues and are looking for ways to get some relief, ginger can be an ideal choice. Because of its anti-inflammatory properties, ginger can help soothe an upset stomach during a heat wave. It facilitates digestion and encourages the secretion of digestive fluids.

Ginger can be taken in many ways as a spice in food, beverages, or supplements.

7 – papaya

Papaya is a tropical fruit that has many benefits that include treating digestive problems as well. They contain digestive enzymes that aid in the digestion and breakdown of proteins, such as papain and chymopapain. They also contain fiber, which stimulates regular bowel movements and avoids constipation.

Summer can be hard on your body and affect your digestive health in several ways. However, it is important to stay hydrated and practice healthy habits to avoid many health conditions such as dehydration and fatigue. If you suffer from chronic abdominal pain, diarrhea and constipation, it is important to see your doctor to avoid further complications.