In this issue: West Nile virus, high cholesterol, fast weight loss, coconut oil, hives and more.

Get tips on avoiding West Nile virus this season. Manage my newsletter.   HOUSECALL Vol. 15, Issue 43 | July 3, 2014   THIS WEEK'S TOP STORIES     West Nile virus Find out how to protect yourself against West Nile virus and mosquitoes this summer.     High cholesterol risk factors: What you can control   There's much you can do to help control your cholesterol, even if you have risk factors you can't change.           EXPERT ANSWERS   Fast weight loss: What's wrong with it? Losing pounds slowly may help you maintain your weight loss for the long term. Coconut oil: Can it cure hypothyroidism? Coconut oil has been touted by some as a cure for hypothyroidism. Truth or hype?   PLUS ADDITIONAL HIGHLIGHTS ... Post-polio syndrome Slide show: Healthy meals start with planning Chronic hives (urticaria) Salmonella infection     TRUSTED HEALTH TOOLS   Use our Symptom Checker to explore possible causes of your symptoms based upon Mayo Clinic's patient care experience.   Use these simple calculators and self-assessments for personalized health tips.   BMI calculator Heart disease risk calculator     NOW BLOGGING   Stress: Memory aids and a regular routine help you stay on track Stress, aging and cognitive decline can all contribute to forgetfulness. These simple tips can help you stay focused.     MAYO CLINIC PRODUCTS & SERVICES   Best treatment strategies for arthritis Today's arthritis options are more effective than ever before, and understanding the condition is key to controlling it. In our new book, Mayo Clinic on Arthritis, you'll discover better medications, improved treatments and self-care tips. This practical knowledge can help you explore your best treatment strategies for leading an active life. Learn more.     HEALTHY RECIPES   Grilled turkey burger Black bean and corn relish Tuna pasta salad Berries marinated in balsamic vinegar   HEALTH TIP OF THE WEEK   Include food safety in your party plans If you're planning a party, put food safety at the top of your to-do list: 1. Leave food sitting out no longer than two hours. 2. Keep hot foods hot with a buffet server or warming dish. Periodically check the temperature of the food with a food thermometer. 3. Keep cold foods cold by placing the serving dish in a bowl of ice. 4. Choose serving containers carefully. Metal insulates heat and cold better than glass does.   Need practical advice on diet and exercise? Want creative solutions for stress and other lifestyle issues? Discover even more healthy lifestyle topics at MayoClinic.org.   Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit organization. Proceeds from website advertising help support our mission. Mayo Clinic does not endorse any non-Mayo products and services. Advertising & Sponsorship Policy    |    Opportunities     Did you know? Mayo Clinic is a not-for-profit medical institution dedicated to patient care, education and medical research. Proceeds from advertising and the sale of Mayo Clinic books and newsletters support Mayo Clinic's mission. Share our passion for science and health. Please consider a gift to Mayo Clinic. Click here to donate.     Connect with Mayo Clinic For more of our reliable health information and tools, visit us at MayoClinic.org. Or add us to your social network!   Like us on Facebook Follow on Twitter Follow on Pinterest   Watch on YouTube Patient Stories View More Newsletters       Thanks for joining our mailing list, wahdaz.5stepquitsmoking@blogger.com, for Mayo Clinic HOUSECALL.   REMOVE me from this list | Add me to this list | Customer service   © 2014 Mayo Foundation for Medical Education and Research, 200 First Street SW, Rochester, MN 55905. All rights reserved.