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The Connection Between Carbohydrates and Cholesterol Levels

Not all carbohydrates are equal — especially when it comes to their effect on cholesterol. Some…

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Not all carbohydrates are equal — especially when it comes to their effect on cholesterol. Some carbohydrates raise cholesterol, while others lower it. You find carbohydrates in breads, cereals, grains, milk, yogurt, fruits, vegetables, and foods that contain added sugars. All carbs are converted into glucose — which is also known as blood sugar — in the body and carbs can be used immediately for energy or stored for later use. Research suggests that the quantity and type of carbohydrates consumed can affect cholesterol.

 

Cholesterol and Triglycerides

Cholesterol is in the fats in your blood. High cholesterol is the buildup of these fats, which can lead to heart disease or stroke. Two types of cholesterol exist: LDL, which is also known as low-density lipoprotein and HDL, which is also known as high-density lipoprotein. LDL is the “bad” cholesterol, because it causes a buildup of plaque in the arteries. HDL is the “good” cholesterol, because it helps the body get rid of excess LDL in the blood by carrying it away from the organs to the liver, so that it can be removed. Triglycerides are another type of fat found in the blood, and high triglyceride levels also increase the risk for heart disease.

Research on Carbs and Cholesterol

Carbohydrate consumption from refined carbohydrates that are high in sugar and low in fiber such as cookies and cakes, is associated with lower levels of HDL and higher levels of LDL and triglycerides, which is associated with an increased risk for heart disease. Very high carbohydrate intakes of more than 60 percent of total calories — along with excess sugar consumption — are associated with an increase in triglycerides, according to the National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute. A 2005 OmniHeart study by Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions compared three diets that emphasized either protein, monounsaturated fat or carbohydrate and found that the protein and monounsaturated fat diets were more effective in reducing the risk factors for heart disease than the high-carbohydrate diet.

 

Breaking Down the Carbohydrates

A food’s glycemic index — which is how fast it increases blood sugar — may affect your cholesterol. The glycemic index of a food depends upon a handful of factors, including the type of starch, fiber content and fat content of that food. For example, a refined or processed food such as white bread, has a higher glycemic index than whole-wheat bread. Additionally, ripe foods tend to have more sugar, while lower fat foods digest faster and cause blood sugar to rise more rapidly, causing them to have a higher glycemic index. In general, whole grains, beans, fruits and vegetables are not only healthy but also have a low glycemic index. Women who eat a high-glycemic index diet are more than twice as likely to develop heart disease, according to a 2010 study published in the “Archives of Internal Medicine.”

 

Soluble Fiber Plays a Role

Although refined carbohydrates may raise your cholesterol, healthier carbohydrates with whole grains and fiber can help lower your cholesterol. The beneficial effects of a low-glycemic diet that contains whole grains may because of its high-fiber content. In particular, soluble fiber has been shown to block cholesterol and fats from absorption, thus lowering the LDL cholesterol. Foods high in soluble fiber include kidney beans, oatmeal, barley, pears, apples and prunes. Aim for five to 10 grams of soluble fiber each day to lower your total cholesterol and your LDL cholesterol. For example, it is possible to meet this goal if you have half a cup of oatmeal for breakfast, half a cup of kidney beans for lunch, one apple for a snack and one medium artichoke with dinner.

 

Conclusion

To improve your cholesterol, eat only a moderate amount of carbohydrates. Everyone has individual requirements, but it can be helpful to have less than 60 percent of your calories come from carbohydrates. Choose carbohydrates that have whole grains, are high in fiber and low in sugar, and include fruits and vegetables. Try replacing unhealthy, high-glycemic carbohydrates — such as chips or cookies — with either whole grains or healthy fats, such as nuts or guacamole.

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Beauty

Harmonizing Nature’s Influence: Bionassay’s Biotechnological Innovations for Skincare

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In the skincare domain, the fusion of botanicals and scientific advancements has led to groundbreaking discoveries, revolutionizing the quest for healthy and sustainable skin solutions. Bionassay, a skincare brand dedicated to excellence, stands as a pioneer in this movement, harnessing biotechnology’s potential to craft products that foster skin health while minimizing environmental impact.

Biotechnology’s role in skincare extends far beyond mere product effectiveness; it holds promise for sustainability. By employing innovative methods, biotechnology offers a more eco-friendly approach to ingredient production, reducing waste and conserving natural resources. At Bionassay, we deeply value sustainability and strive to integrate it into every facet of our operations.

Our commitment to sustainability resonates in our ingredient selection. Through the synergy of nature and cutting-edge biotechnological processes, we formulate potent and environmentally conscious skincare solutions. Consider salicylic acid, a potent compound traditionally sourced from aspirin. Thanks to biotechnological advancements, we can now sustainably synthesize salicylic acid from Wintergreen. This compound not only exfoliates the skin, removing dead cells, but also boasts antimicrobial and anti-inflammatory properties. In our Neige Éternelle cream, Wintergreen extract revitalizes the epidermis and unclogs pores, revealing a clearer, more radiant complexion.

Likewise, hyaluronic acid, renowned for its skin-plumping properties, is sustainably sourced from chicory root. Found in our Perle D’Eau and Éclat de Lait formulations, chicory root extract serves as a biomimetic activator of hyaluronic acid synthesis. Post-application, it aids the skin in producing hyaluronic acid beneath the surface, ensuring optimal hydration and a rejuvenated appearance.

At Bionassay, transparency and accountability are paramount. Our products bear the Leaping Bunny certification, and we refrain from testing on animals. Moreover, all our ingredients are traceable to their source, guaranteeing fair working conditions and the efficacy of our formulations.

In essence, the integration of biotechnology in skincare signifies a significant stride towards sustainability. By embracing nature’s bounty and cutting-edge science, Bionassay is steadfast in providing skincare solutions that not only deliver remarkable results but also contribute to a greener future for our planet.

Discover Bionassay’s array of sustainable skincare products here.

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Business

Is Cloud Storage Secure? Your Guide to Cloud Security

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Cloud storage has emerged as a backbone for data management, providing users with accessible, scalable, and cost-effective solutions. However, as reliance on cloud services grows, so does concern over the security of data stored in the cloud. This brings us to the crucial question: Is cloud storage secure?

To demystify cloud security, it’s essential to understand that cloud storage security is a shared responsibility between the cloud service provider (CSP) and the user. Leading CSPs, such as Amazon Web Services (AWS), Microsoft Azure, and Google Cloud Platform (GCP), invest heavily in securing their infrastructure. They deploy advanced security measures like encryption, multi-factor authentication, and redundant data storage. However, users also play a key role in implementing security best practices to safeguard their data.

The Reality of Cloud Security

The good news is that cloud storage can be incredibly secure, often more so than traditional on-premise data storage solutions. CSPs leverage economies of scale to implement comprehensive security measures that individual organizations may find cost-prohibitive. These include continuous security monitoring, regular security assessments, and the deployment of cutting-edge technologies to detect and mitigate threats.

Encryption is one of the fundamental security features offered by CSPs, ensuring that data is unreadable to unauthorized individuals. Data is encrypted both in transit and at rest, which means that whether your data is being uploaded to or stored in the cloud, it remains protected. Furthermore, many CSPs utilize encryption keys that give users control over who can decode and access their information.

Addressing Common Cloud Security Concerns

Despite the robust security measures in place, skepticism about cloud security persists, primarily due to high-profile data breaches. However, it’s crucial to note that breaches often result from compromised user credentials or poorly configured cloud resources rather than failures in the CSPs’ security measures.

To address these vulnerabilities, cloud providers offer tools and best practices for users to enhance their security posture. These include:

  • Multi-factor Authentication (MFA): An additional layer of security that requires more than just a password to access your cloud account.
  • Access Management: Tools that allow you to define who has access to specific data within your cloud environment.
  • Regular Security Audits: Features that help you identify security risks in your cloud configuration and take corrective action.

Best Practices for Cloud Storage Security

Users can adopt several best practices to maximize the security of their cloud storage:

  1. Implement Strong Password Policies: Use complex passwords and change them regularly.
  2. Enable MFA: Always activate MFA for an added layer of security.
  3. Educate Users: Train employees on security risks and safe online practices.
  4. Regularly Backup Data: Ensure you have backups of important data, not just in the cloud but also offline.
  5. Stay Informed: Keep up to date with your CSP’s latest security features and recommendations.

Secure Your Data

Is cloud storage secure? Absolutely, but with a caveat. The security of your data in the cloud relies on a partnership between you and your CSP. By choosing a reputable provider and adhering to best practices for data security, you can confidently leverage cloud storage solutions with peace of mind, knowing your data is well-protected. Like any aspect of cybersecurity, vigilance and continuous improvement are key to staying ahead of potential threats.

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Health

3 Asbestos Risks to Know About Before Tackling a DIY Home Reno

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home renovation

While warm weather seasons might be a good time to tackle DIY home improvement projects, you must consider more than the scope of the renovation and the anticipated expense.

Depending on the age of your home, there are potential health risks to be mindful of before getting behind walls, handling insulation, ripping out floor tiles, or doing other things.

Asbestos risks are real. While there wasn’t a total asbestos ban until recently, the Environmental Protection Agency prohibited asbestos use in some new products after 1989. So, a home built before then might have materials containing asbestos. And if the asbestos fibers get into the air and are inhaled by you, your family, or visitors, the long-term consequences could be severe. 

For example, asbestos exposure can lead to a severe form of cancer known as mesothelioma. Mesothelioma is rare and aggressive. By the time it’s diagnosed — it can take decades before it develops and causes problems — the cancer is typically at an advanced stage.

So, it makes sense to hire a professional contractor if your home may contain asbestos.

Consider these three things you must know about asbestos. You’ll see why caution is vital when contemplating a DIY home renovation project.

1. All Asbestos Is Dangerous

While some believe that some asbestos is less harmful than others, it’s best to treat all asbestos as detrimental to one’s well-being. And the more asbestos fibers you breathe in, the higher your odds of getting asbestos-related ailments. The problem with undertaking DIY home renovations is that products containing asbestos can, if the products are removed carelessly, release asbestos fibers into the air. So, if you’re ripping out flooring tiles with asbestos and damage the tiles in the process, that’s all it’ll take to potentially release asbestos fibers.

2. You Won’t Immediately Know You’ve Been Exposed

One of the problems with asbestos exposure is that you won’t necessarily know you have been exposed. If working in an environment with materials containing asbestos, you might suspect possible exposure. But if you breathe in asbestos fibers, you won’t experience tell-tale signs. So, your lungs won’t feel irritated, your throat won’t itch, and you won’t cough. 

Asbestos fibers are too small to see with the naked eye, which means you won’t see it in the air. 

Considering that it can take decades between exposure and symptoms, you can appreciate why people with asbestos-related ailments are often surprised by a diagnosis later in life.

If you renovate your basement, bathroom, or some other space without taking proper precautions to prevent asbestos fibers from getting into the air, you could endanger the health of anyone in your home. It’s just that they may not know it until decades later if they get mesothelioma.

3. Asbestos Exposure Can Lead to Mesothelioma, Lung Cancer, and Other Diseases

Lung cancer and asbestosis, a chronic lung ailment caused by breathing in asbestos fibers, are known as dose-related ailments. This means the more asbestos fibers you inhale, the more probable you’ll get one of these two diseases. 

What makes mesothelioma different from lung cancer and asbestosis is that even a relatively small exposure can cause mesothelioma. And exposure can come in different ways. If your loved one works in an environment with asbestos, you might breathe in the fibers if they come home after work and have asbestos fibers on their clothes. So, second-hand exposure is possible.

These are three things to know about asbestos exposure before tackling any home improvement project. While you likely have nothing to worry about if your home was built after 1989, you should exercise caution if you have an older home. It’s a good idea to contact a professional who can give your home a once-over to let you know if there are any asbestos risks.

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