Answer:  CONGRATS! Now that you’re on a healthful mission, the rest will be a breeze. Having elevated cholesterol isn’t exactly the fate worse than death that it may seem. Being restricted to 3000 milligrams of sodium is easier rule than you may think to follow. Basically, 3000 to 4000 milligrams of sodium a day is little more than a diet that includes no added salt. Since sodium also holds water in the body, an added benefit is that by restricting your sodium intake, you won’t hold excess body fluid, and therefore, as long as you are consistent with exercise and an otherwise healthful diet, you won’t gain weight. To implement your sodium-restricted diet, you’ll want to stay away from salty snacks, such as salted nuts, chips, corn curls, etc. Cut back or cut out hard cheeses like cheddar (also usually high in fat), processed foods (anything in the can except tuna), boxed foods that add sauces, such as macaroni and cheese mixes, and other sauce mixes, and processed meats. Eat mostly FRESH fruits and vegetables and whole, fresh, unprocessed foods. Wash those good foods down with plenty and water and enjoy your new HEALTHSTYLE!

Answer: Any fitness expert will tell you that swimming is an excellent and fun way to get fit. First, it works almost all muscle groups in your body. Swimming or doing the crawl for an hour burns about 540 calories for a person who weighs 150 pounds. If you weigh less, then the energy you expend will also be a little less, but you’ve got to admit, it sure is a fun way to be healthy. As for getting tight abs, semi sit-ups and their modified versions are good tummy tighteners. First, lie on you back with your legs bent at a 90 degree angle. Keep your chin tucked as you slowly raise your head and shoulders off the floor. Hold the position for five seconds, then slowly lie back down, and repeat it 10 times. Follow the same procedure, but raise your head and shoulders to the right 10 times. This modified version works on the obliques (those love handles we love to hate). Doing this exercise not only works those abdominal muscles, but also helps to strengthen your lower back and other muscles that support the spine.