Use enumeration in paragraphs when you want to itemize or list a set of topics or a series of some kind. Enumeration is a powerful way to establish a series of observations and to emphasize each element. In the following paragraph, the items are enumerated in a series of itemized recommendations.
Have your blood cholesterol measured if you've never had it
done. Finger-prick tests at health fairs and other public places
are generally fairly accurate, especially if they're offered by a
hospital or other reputable health group. When you know your
"number," follow these guidelines from the National Cholesterol
Education Program:
- If your cholesterol is under 200 mg/dl, maintain a
healthy lifestyle--including eating a low-fat diet,
getting regular exercise, maintaining a health body
weight, and not smoking--and get another test within
five years.
- If your cholesterol is between 200 and 239 mg/dl, have
a second test performed and average the results. If
that number falls in the same range, and if you do have
any form of cardiovascular disease, change your diet to
improve your cholesterol. In addition, eliminate any
other risk factors you have and get tested again in
about one year.
- If your cholesterol is 240 mg/dl or more, your
physician should order a more detailed cholesterol
analysis and recommend therapy based on the results.
You should begin a cholesterol-improving diet
immediately.
--P. Insel and W. Roth, Core Concepts in Health
