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The prostate gland is an indispensable part of the male reproductive system that is responsible for producing seminal fluid. Prostate cancer develops when abnormal, cancerous cells develop in the prostate gland. These cells may eventually spread to other organs, including the liver and lymph nodes. While prostate cancer is common among men, early diagnosis and treatment can help overcome the condition. This article elucidates the prostate cancer causes and symptoms and ways to mitigate its risk:

Causes and risk factors
Genetic predisposition
Mutations to specific genes like BRCA1, BRCA2, and HOXB13 can increase one’s risk of developing prostate cancer. These genetic mutations are also responsible for the onset of breast cancer. Therefore, research has demonstrated that individuals with a family history of breast cancer may also be more vulnerable to this condition than others. Finally, individuals with close blood relatives grappling with prostate cancer are at a higher risk.

Age
One’s risk of prostate cancer increases with age and is most common among individuals over the age of 50. Further, individuals who are 65 years or older account for 60% of prostate cancer cases.

Excessive fat consumption
Several experts agree that excessive fat intake is one of the most crucial risk factors for prostate cancer. Meal plans consistently high in fat sources like red meat and other rich meat sources can increase one’s probability of developing this condition. Fats lead to excessive production of testosterone, which can accelerate prostate cancer development and growth. As a result, prostate cancer is more common in countries where meat and dairy are consumed in large quantities.

Exposure to agent orange
Exposure to Agent Orange, a detrimental chemical herbicide and defoliant used during the Vietnam War, is believed to be a risk factor for prostate cancer. War veterans exposed to this chemical during their military services were found to be affected by this condition.

Symptoms of prostate cancer
Individuals with prostate cancer may not experience any symptoms during its early stages. However, with time, one may begin to experience symptoms as follows:

Interruptions in urine flow
Prostate cancer may cause interruptions to urine flow, often slowing it down or leading to the inability to control its flow. These interruptions are caused by enlargement of the prostate gland, which blocks the passage of urine.

Incomplete emptying of the bladder
Patients with prostate cancer may face challenges emptying their bladder due to prostate enlargement. They may feel that their bladder is not entirely empty even after urinating.

Bone pain
Patients may experience dull and persistent bone pain at the advanced stages of prostate cancer. This symptom indicates that the cancer has spread to the bones. The bone pain may prevent patients from sleeping comfortably.

Erectile dysfunction
Although erectile dysfunction is not a direct symptom of prostate cancer, its treatment can lead to the development of erectile dysfunction, as it can affect the nerves responsible for causing erections.

Ways to reduce prostate cancer risk
Limit fat intake
As mentioned earlier, excessive fat consumption can increase one’s risk of developing prostate cancer. Thus, limiting fat intake, especially from animal sources, is an effective way to mitigate prostate cancer risk. It helps to replace fat sources like red meat with lean meats like chicken and turkey breast, pork, healthy vegetable oils, and clarified butter.

Have foods rich in lycopene
Some studies have identified an association between lycopene-rich foods and prostate cancer prevention. Leafy greens, including kale, spinach, Brussels sprouts, and Swiss chard, are rich in lycopene and can lower prostate cancer risk. Lycopene is also found in cooked tomatoes, apricots, pink guavas, watermelons, and grapefruits.

Incorporate foods high in sulforaphane
According to recent studies, sulforaphane can play a role in prostate cancer prevention. Thus, it is advisable to have foods high in sulforaphane, including cruciferous vegetables like cabbage, broccoli, and bok choy. One should heat or freeze cruciferous vegetables before consumption for better sulforaphane absorption.

Increase vitamin D intake and exposure to sunlight
Vitamin D is proven to help with the prevention of prostate cancer as well as other cancers. Exposure to sunlight can increase vitamin D in the body. Moreover, it is recommended to have foods rich in vitamin D, such as wild salmon and other fatty fish, cod liver oil, dried shitake mushrooms, and egg yolks.

Increase sexual activity
Several studies have found that an increased frequency of ejaculation is associated with lowered risk of prostate cancer. A possible explanation for this finding is that ejaculation may help clear cancer-causing substances from the prostate.

Stay physically active
According to a recent study, physically active individuals have increased chances of prostate cancer survival than those leading sedentary lifestyles. In another study, individuals who performed exercises equivalent to one to three hours of walking every day had an 86% lower risk of developing prostate cancer than others. Thus, it is advisable to be physically active, engaging in exercises like walking, jogging, cycling, swimming, aerobics, and strength training.

Prostate cancer may be classified into four distinct stages:

Early stages
Stage I and II are classified as early stages, wherein cancer has not begun spreading and is limited to the prostate.

Locally advanced stage
Here, the cancer has progressed to stage III and has begun spreading to nearby tissues.

Advanced stage
In stage IV, the cancer has spread to organs like the liver and lymph nodes.

Detecting cancer at the early stages can overcome the condition. Nevertheless, diagnosis at the advanced stages can also limit its spread to other organs and slow its progression. At the advanced stages, doctors typically recommend treatments such as radical prostatectomy or hormone therapy, also called androgen ablation or androgen deprivation therapy. Alongside a systematic treatment course, a healthy and active lifestyle, a well-chalked-out meal plan with all essential nutrients, and abstinence from fast food can help heal prostate cancer.

Water is a vital component that supports the body’s functioning on almost every level. For instance, it ensures optimal oxygen supply to different organs, provides energy, regulates internal temperature through perspiration, lubricates the joints, and facilitates other essential functions that promote one’s overall well-being. But unfortunately, most people overlook this basic need of the body in their busy schedules and fail to drink adequate amounts of water, which turns out detrimental in the long run.

Side effects of insufficient water intake
The required daily water intake can vary from person to person depending on their age, activity level, and other factors. However, the recommended amount is 2.7 liters for women and 3.7 liters for men. A person’s body may not show signs of thirst on not meeting this requirement. However, it can lead to several complications over time. In most cases, these complications are mistaken for other health concerns but are actually the side effects of a lack of water intake.

Below are a few immediate and long-term side effects of drinking insufficient water:

Dehydration
Dehydration occurs when the body loses more water through vomiting, diarrhea, or sweating than it receives. This can lead to imbalances in bodily functions and cause physical symptoms like dizziness and a dry mouth. Sometimes, it can also lead to reduced urination, which can cause further complications. While dehydration could result from other underlying health issues as well, one should proactively increase their water intake and see if the discomforts subside.

Joint and muscle pain
Hydration is crucial for joint lubrication, joint cushioning, and proper muscle function. Insufficient water intake can lead to joint stiffness, increased risk of injuries, and muscle cramps. Drinking water is especially crucial during physical activity to prevent these issues. Hence, individuals visiting the gym should carry a bottle of water and keep sipping it between workouts.

Impaired cognitive function
Prioritizing water intake can help optimize cognitive function, enhance mental performance, and promote overall brain health. On the other hand, dehydration can lead to the narrowing of blood vessels in the brain, causing cognitive impairments like memory retention issues and an inability to concentrate. Not drinking water regularly can also negatively impact one’s mood and lead to anxiety.

Sunken eyes
Studies show that a lack of water in the body can darken the areas around the eyes, making them appear shadowy and sunken. If the region surrounding the eyes seems thin or papery, it is likely due to insufficient water.

Digestive problems
Water helps with the digestion and absorption of nutrients and the smooth movement of food through the digestive tract. A lack of it can cause constipation, indigestion, and bloating, making bowel movements uncomfortable and irregular. It can also make one susceptible to urinary tract infections (UTIs) since the bacteria are not flushed out regularly.

Increased risk of kidney stones
Kidney stones are hard mineral deposits that form in the organ and appear like lumps or crystals. They can occur for various reasons, from a family history of the condition to a lack of hydration. Regardless of the cause, kidney stones cause pain and cramps and affect urination. Drinking adequate water is one way to prevent them from forming.

Impaired physical performance
Water is crucial in helping people work, exercise, and perform well in physical activities. Not drinking enough can reduce a person’s physical capabilities, cause muscle cramps, and decrease stamina. Therefore, individuals should stay hydrated if they intend to perform any task that requires intense body movements.

Weak immunity
Water is necessary for a robust immune system. It helps transport oxygen and nutrients to cells while flushing out toxins and waste products. Without adequate hydration, the immune system may become compromised, making an individual more susceptible to illnesses and infections that could otherwise be easily avoided.

Fatigue
When the body is dehydrated, it can lead to fatigue and decreased energy levels. Water is essential for transporting oxygen and nutrients to cells, providing them with the energy needed for optimal functioning. Insufficient hydration can leave one feeling tired, lethargic, and less motivated.

Interrupted or sluggish bowel movements
Water helps digest food and ensures it easily passes through different digestive tract organs. It also helps flush out waste through urine, sweat, and bowel movements, ensuring proper detoxification. Further, it softens the stool, prevents constipation, and promotes regular bowel movements. When the body lacks proper hydration, the colon absorbs more water from the stool, resulting in dry and hard feces. Long-term dehydration can also increase the risk of irritable bowel syndrome (IBS).

Poor skin health
Skin elasticity depends on how much water is present in the body. Proper hydration ensures the skin is elastic and has a healthy glow. To know if the skin is well hydrated, one can pinch the skin. If it does not bounce back, the person may need to drink more water. Besides ensuring elasticity, drinking plenty of water helps prevent scars, wrinkles, fine lines, and other signs of aging. It keeps the skin youthful and vibrant for a long time.

Fluid imbalance in the body
The human body is made of 70% water, so lacking it can lead to a severe fluid imbalance. This can cause blood thickening, which can put more pressure on the heart to pump blood and supply iron and oxygen to all body parts. Consequently, one’s heart rate and blood pressure may increase, and their body may find it challenging to maintain an ideal temperature.

While hydration is essential, individuals must also focus on the quality of the water they drink, as it can affect their health. The drinking water should not have a peculiar taste or be contaminated or discolored. One way to ensure this is to use a trusted filtration system. A household water filter removes impurities from water, making it safe for consumption.

Eating right and exercising regularly are well-known contributors to a healthy body. However, you must realize that food choices are essential to get the healthy skin they desire. Do you know that certain food items that appear healthy can cause long-term damage to your skin? Consuming sugary treats and fatty oils can significantly impact your skin. Discover which food items from your meal plan need to be replaced with healthy alternatives.

Five foods to avoid for healthier skin

Excessively sugary drinks and snacks
Excessive sugar intake can trigger inflammation, drying the skin and making it dull and wrinkled. The sugar molecules get attached to collagen and elastin fibers of the skin, breaking them down and decreasing elasticity. As a result, the skin no longer looks smooth or feels healthy.
Not only does excessive sugar consumption cause premature skin aging, but it also results in skin diseases or conditions such as acne, eczema, and psoriasis. The body’s insulin levels increase the growth of bacteria when it digests excess sugars. It, in turn, can cause flare-ups of skin conditions and further damage the skin (dryness, itchiness, and darkening).
Moreover, consuming large amounts of sweets (or overeating) leads to an unhealthy BMI, resulting in more wrinkles and saggy skin. You can keep your skin youthful by swapping sugary snacks with healthier binging alternatives, such as nuts, fruits, and seeds (quinoa or legumes).

Refined oils (especially canola oil)
The primary reason to avoid canola oil (or any refined oil) is excessive trans fats. Trans fats can cause inflammation and weaken your skin, affecting its structural integrity through loss of muscle tone, sagging skin, or causing aging signs (wrinkles, fine lines, etc.)
Refined oils like canola oil are easily oxidized due to their high polyunsaturated fatty acid content. When fats are oxidized (due to exposure to heat, light, and oxygen), they form toxic compounds like aldehydes that can accumulate in the body, leading to inflammation and skin diseases like psoriasis.
Like all refined oils, canola oil contains harmful free radicals (highly reactive and unstable molecules or fragments of molecules with an unpaired electron). These can damage our cells’ DNA and lead to various skin conditions, including premature aging, wrinkles, and certain types of skin cancer, such as cell and basal cell carcinoma.
Instead of refined oils, opt for organic, cold-pressed oils rich in nutrients like healthy fats and Vitamin E for healthier skin.

Processed meats
Processed meats are usually high in salt, fat, and calories which can contribute to skin diseases and conditions like acne, inflammation, and premature aging. Excessive salt and fat intake strip the skin of its oil, making it feel dry and scaly. The fat content in processed meats can also increase sebum production, clogging your pores and causing breakouts. Sebum is the oily, waxy substance of fatty acids aiding in temperature regulation and preventing the skin from becoming too dry.
Processed meats are also high in certain preservatives linked to skin diseases such as allergies and irritations. Nitrates, for example, are often added to processed meats as a preservative and are associated with skin rashes, eye problems, and blurred vision. Processed meats contain artificial colorings and flavors, which can irritate the skin and worsen existing skin conditions.
So, next time you experience extreme hunger pangs, try swapping burgers and sausages for lean protein and healthy fats such as fatty fish, nuts, and seeds. A balanced meal plan is the most effective way to ensure beautiful, healthy skin.

Processed dairy products
Eating food with a large amount of saturated fat develops skin irritation in the form of acne/spots. Notably, processed dairy products often have more saturated fat compared to their fresh counterparts (with concentrations of 60-70%). The fat content in these products can clog the skin’s pores and cause outbursts. Long-term exposure to preservatives like hydrogen peroxide in processed foods can result in the appearance of wrinkles, age spots, and reduced skin elasticity.
Processed dairy products may contain synthetic hormones (rbGH) and antibiotics (sulfonamides, tetracyclines). These hormones can affect the balance of hormones in your body and cause several skin diseases and issues, such as acne and premature aging.
Opting for unprocessed dairy products in your meals will likely result in healthier skin. Processed dairy products often contain added hormones like prolactin and somatin, which may cause breakouts and disrupt the balance of hormones. This may lead to acne or skin diseases and conditions like eczema and psoriasis.

Fast food
Eating deep-fried foods such as potato fries and chicken nuggets will immediately increase your daily intake of unhealthy fats and potentially cause inflammation.
French fries, in particular, can be classified as a food with a high glycemic index. This means the carbohydrate breaks down quickly and spikes blood sugar levels in the body. When eaten on an empty stomach, the sudden rise in your blood sugar and insulin levels can cause skin diseases because of hormone fluctuations.
Saturated fats are commonly found in fried foods and processed meats. These can clog the pores and lead to blemishes. However, unhealthy eating habits can lead to deficiencies in vitamins A, C, E, and B-complex, which are vital for skin health. When these nutritional requirements are low, collagen production slows down, and skin elasticity is lost, resulting in dull, saggy skin, fine lines, and wrinkles.
You have determined that most unhealthy skin disease-causing food items share something in common– they are all high in sugar, salt, and unhealthy fats. These nutrients are not only bad for your skin but also your overall health. Therefore, focus on green, leafy vegetables and unprocessed lean meats like chicken, turkey, and fish for better skin.

Wrapping up
Finally, selecting dietary choices beneficial for maintaining skin health and preventing skin diseases is a practical approach to sustaining healthy skin. You may consume more fiber, water, proteins, vitamins, and healthy fats in vegetables, fruits, whole-grain foods, quinoa, brown rice, and peanut butter. Consuming nutritious meals with loads of fresh fruits and vegetables and complex carbohydrates can help you maintain healthy skin and avoid skin diseases.

Fabric cleaning and washing products are loaded with chemicals and can cause skin allergies, respiratory problems, headaches, and blurred vision. Seniors face a higher risk from these products as their overall health issues increase with age. Thus, it is imperative for them to choose certified and safe products for all sorts of laundry needs to stay protected from preventable emergencies. Accordingly, here are some top senior-friendly laundry detergents and cleaning products to note.

Six best senior-friendly liquid detergents for use
Based on the above guidelines, here are six great senior-friendly liquid detergents for daily use:

Tide Purclean Honey Lavender Liquid Laundry Detergent
The Tide Purclean Honey Lavender Liquid Laundry Detergent is Tide’s first plant-based liquid detergent. It is certified by USDA and is free from dyes, chlorines, dyes, phosphates, or optical brighteners. It is available in 24, 32, 48, and 64 ounces and is safe to use in all washers. The perfume is mild, and it can remove the grittiest of dirt.

Puracy Natural Stain Remover
If you are looking for spotless clothes and stains bother you, you can try the Puracy Natural Stain Remover. It can remove all types of stains caused by wine, food, coffee, or oil, and the associated odors. It also works on all fabric types, including your delicate clothes, linen, bedsheets, carpets, and floor mats. If you use cloth diapers, this product can also clean them perfectly without any stains or odor.

Persil® ProClean®
Persil is one of the best liquid detergents for removing tough stains and has been a favorite detergent for decades. It can be used in all types of washers and for all water temperatures. If you have some old, unnoticed stains, and your current detergent has been ineffective, you can switch to Persil, as it can remove tough old stains too. It is available in 40 oz bottles that seniors can handle and use without difficulty.

Botanical Origin Laundry Detergent
Botanical Origin Laundry Detergent is a plant-based liquid laundry detergent. It is completely free from synthetic dyes, fragrances, phosphates, parabens, and brighteners. It is safe for babies and seniors; it is hypoallergenic and has been tested by dermatologists. You can use it with cold and warm water. The senior-friendly laundry detergent has a beautiful fragrance, containing natural orange blossom and citrus essential oils. It is also cost-effective as one 54 oz bottle can wash about 72 loads of laundry, bringing your per-wash cost to the minimum.

Seventh Generation Free and Clear Fragrance-Free Natural Liquid Laundry Detergent
Seventh Generation Free and Clear is a popular and loved detergent brand. The brand has launched a plant and mineral-based liquid detergent that is safe for all and does not carry any risk of health issues for seniors. It is easily available in retail stores and online stores. It has been tested by dermatologists and certified by EPA and USDA certified. If you prefer a detergent with fragrance, it also comes with a fragrance option. It is available in smaller bottles, and a 40 oz container can wash 53 loads making your per-wash-cost affordable.

Cleancult
Cleancult is an eco-friendly product that is hypoallergenic and non-toxic to the environment. It comes in refillable-glass bottles of 32 oz each, and you can wash 64 loads of laundry with it. It is available in Juniper and Sandalwood fragrances made from essential oils. It is also available in a no-fragrance option.

Now that you know which laundry detergents are best for seniors, here are some additional tips for choosing the right option.

Benefits of liquid detergents
The main types of laundry detergents available in the market include liquid, powder, single-dose pods, tablet detergents, and laundry sheets. While single-use pods, tablets, and laundry sheets are convenient, they are expensive; powder detergents can be difficult to use for seniors. Liquid detergents, in contrast, are efficient for all stains and convenient to use. They dissolve immediately and cause less foam requiring less water. Unlike powder detergents, they do not leave any residue on your clothes. You can also find hypoallergenic, eczema-friendly liquid and 100% organic liquid detergents for seniors with sensitive skin.

Tips for choosing the right liquid detergent for seniors
Find out how much liquid detergent is needed every month based on the volume of laundry, type of machine, water quality, and fabric used.
Identify the most effective cleaner for tough stains, as spilling food is common as one ages. You can also look for products that remove odors if you have incontinence or wear diapers.
If you have sensitive skin, psoriasis, or eczema, buy hypoallergenic detergents that are safe for the skin.
You can also opt for detergents available on subscription, where you pay once, and your detergent is delivered to your doorstep every month.
Compare the costs of more than one brand and work out the cost per wash to get the best value for money.
Look for detergents that are available in smaller sizes and containers so that you can lift and use them conveniently. Large containers may be cheaper, but lifting them and pouring them into the measuring caps may be cumbersome. If liquid detergent spills onto the floor, it can cause slips and lead to serious injuries.
Read the ingredient list and ensure that the liquid detergent does not contain any harmful chemicals.
Choose brands approved by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) or the United States Department of Agriculture (USDA). If you have sensitive skin, look for products recommended by dermatologists or by the National Eczema Association and National Psoriasis Foundation.

Additionally, it is crucial to avoid certain ingredients in products. Given below is a list of ingredients that can be found in household cleaners and laundry detergents.

Eight harmful household chemicals that seniors should avoid
Some of the common chemicals found in laundry detergents that cause adverse health impacts in seniors include:

1,4-Dioxane, used as a solvent and degreaser, is a carcinogen.
Sodium Laureth Sulphate (SLS), a foaming agent, can cause eczema, rosacea and psoriasis.
Sodium hypochlorite, known as bleach, is an optical brightener that converts UV light to visible light and makes white clothes look brighter. It can cause lung and skin irritation.
Formaldehyde, a preservative, can irritate the skin, lungs and eyes.
Phosphates used to soften hard water can cause nausea, diarrhea, and skin problems.
Nonylphenol ethoxylate can lead to poor reproductive growth, early menstruation, and low sperm count.
Benzene, a surfactant to release dirt from clothes, can irritate our eyes, skin and nose.
Synthetic fragrances are added to keep the clothes smelling fresh after washing. They are usually a combination of thousands of chemicals and can trigger asthma and other respiratory symptoms.

A healthy lifestyle is the first step toward ensuring overall well-being. This requires prioritizing health even amid busy schedules. However, approximately two in five adults in the country are dealing with high cholesterol. Here, a meal plan comprising all essential nutrients, combined with an active lifestyle, plays an integral role in preventing diseases. So, here are some healthy, easy-to-make snacks that one can add to their daily meals when dealing with high cholesterol:

Tofu and vegetable sandwich
Studies have shown that having about 25 grams of soy protein a day can lower LDL cholesterol levels by 5 to 6%. Tofu, which is made of soy, is an excellent vegan source of protein and can help provide the body with the required energy levels. Moreover, vegetables like carrots, broccoli, and Brussels sprouts are rich sources of soluble fiber, which aids digestion and has cholesterol-lowering properties. So, whole-grain bread slices stuffed with tofu, vegetables, and a few spoonfuls of lentils or sprouts make for a scrumptious breakfast that can help manage cholesterol levels.

Sprouts salad
In addition to being crunchy, delectable, and easy to prepare, sprouts are packed with proteins, iron, vitamin C, folate, magnesium, and other essential nutrients. A regular intake of sprouts can help lower LDL cholesterol levels and manage blood sugar. One may prepare a salad comprising sprouts they like (sprouted black beans, kidney beans, moth beans, and black-eyed beans) and salad vegetables (i.e., carrots, cucumbers, and chopped spinach). An olive oil dressing can enhance the salad’s flavors and increase its nutritional value.

Oatmeal and nut cookies
Loaded with soluble fiber, iron, amino acids, zinc, and selenium, oatmeal is the perfect way to start the day. Further, tree nuts like almonds and walnuts are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which help lower bad cholesterol. So, delicious oatmeal and nut cookies can serve as perfect healthy snacks to lower cholesterol and are great alternatives to processed and deep-fried foods. One should avoid using refined flour to bake the cookies, replacing it with whole wheat flour (when not intolerant or sensitive to gluten), almond flour, coconut flour, or buckwheat flour. Chopped dates or figs may be added as natural sweeteners to replace refined sugar.

Fruit salad
Fruits such as apples, grapefruits, bananas, oranges, and cranberries are great sources of pectin, which can lower LDL cholesterol levels by up to 16%. So, a bowl of assorted fruits, including seasonal ones, can replenish the body with vital nutrients and help prevent and manage high cholesterol.

Unsalted popcorn
Contrary to popular belief, popcorn is a fiber-rich snack low in calories and ideal for people with high blood cholesterol. However, store-bought popcorn typically contains large amounts of salt, butter, and spices, making it highly processed and unhealthy. So, one should try to make plain popcorn at home and enjoy it as an evening snack or while watching a series on the weekend.

Baked eggplant chips
Eggplants are rich in chlorogenic acid, an antioxidant that has been shown to lower LDL cholesterol levels. Baked eggplant chips are excellent alternatives to deep-fried chips, especially when served with a delectable dip containing Greek yogurt, garlic, and sliced cucumber. Here, one can drizzle extra virgin olive oil on the eggplant slices and bake them for approximately 20 minutes or till crisp and golden.

Vegetable fingers and hummus
Chickpeas are rich in fiber and polyunsaturated fats and low in sodium, being the best healthy snacks to lower cholesterol levels. Hummus is a great way to incorporate chickpeas into the meals. Moreover, diced vegetables like carrots and cucumbers served with hummus as a dop can make for a filling and scrumptious snack for managing cholesterol levels.

Avocado toast
Avocado is rich in monounsaturated fats and several nutrients, including folate, niacin, magnesium, vitamins, and potassium, which can help lower cholesterol. Further, studies have shown that two servings of avocado per week can reduce the susceptibility to heart problems. Owing to its buttery taste and texture, avocado can be spread over toast to make for a filling and nutritious snack or breakfast option. However, one must remember to prepare this toast using whole-wheat or multigrain bread instead of white bread.

Roasted fox nuts
Fox nuts are packed with potassium and healthy carbohydrates, which can help control triglyceride and cholesterol and prevent cardiovascular diseases. Roasted, unsalted, unspiced fox nuts are healthy munchies and suitable replacements for processed snacks like chips and baked desserts.

Boiled sweet potatoes
According to research, sweet potatoes can lower LDL cholesterol levels and reduce the risk of heart problems. Sweet potatoes are rich in nutrients like vitamin A, vitamin C, beta-carotene, and potassium. So, boiled sweet potatoes with a dash of lime juice and without salt or spices can be a healthy, filling snack option for those with high cholesterol.

Boiled sweet corn
A study published in the Journal of Nutritional Biochemistry suggests that corn husk oil can help keep cholesterol levels in check and prevent heart conditions. Further, corn can also help manage levels of carbohydrate, protein, and lipid metabolism in the body. Boiled, unsalted sweet corn is the perfect snack for people with high cholesterol. One may season this snack with a dash of lime juice to increase its palatability.

Baked barley chips
Barley contains a soluble fiber called beta-glucan, which helps lower cholesterol levels. It also contains several essential vitamins and minerals, making them healthy alternatives to deep-fried chips. However, these chips should be baked with little to no spices and salt.

In addition to incorporating these healthy snacks into daily meals, one should adopt certain healthy lifestyle practices, such as avoiding processed and store-bought foods, exercising regularly, and staying hydrated. A sedentary lifestyle can increase the risk of high cholesterol and heart problems. So, one should set reminders to move about and stretch for at least 5 to 10 minutes every hour and walk every day to manage cholesterol levels effectively.