Yasuko Morimoto writes:

        There are some similarities between patient A and patient B. Both of them like foods which do not help to decrease cholesterol, such as cheese, ice cream and white bread. They also have a similarity in that they both do little exercising.

        On the other hand, we notice many differences in their life styles. Patient A smokes while patient B does not. Patient B has other problems like being overweight and a family history of diabetes. The most important differences are these: Patient A has pain and narrowing of the arteries while patient B does not have these problems. The LDL level of patient A is higher than 160, which means he has an increased risk for heart disease. On the other hand, patient B has a normal cholesterol level.

        Patient A should eat healthy food and take regular exercise three or four days a week. His cholesterol revel is 165, which means he has an increased risk for heart disease. His life style is likely to increase his cholesterol level. He should choose lean cuts when he eats meat, limit his intake of ice cream and eggs and take more vegetables and fiberrich foods every day. If he uses the stairs instead of the lift inside his office or take exercise during lunchtime, he can exercise regularly. Eating healthy food can help lower his LDL level and regular exercise can raise his HDL level. By changing his life style, he may be protected from heart disease in the future.

        Patient B should not only be careful of her diet but also her life style. Though her cholesterol level is normal, she has many risks of heart disease like doing little exercise, smoking, obesity and a family history of diabetes. She also should choose more fiberrich foods, for example, wholegrain bread instead of white bread. She should quit smoking and take regular exercise. Rather than just on weekends, she may ride her bicycle to go to the station instead of using a bus every day. It is important for her to recognize that she has many factors implicated in heart disease. If she tries following these suggestions, she may become healthier and protect herself from heart disease.

        By following this advice they may find that their cholesterol level will be reduced to a more normal or healthy level. It is important for them to continue eating healthy foods, taking regular exercise and keeping their healthy life styles.

         

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