Cholesterol – a waxy substance found in your blood – is needed to build healthy cells. However, high cholesterol can make it difficult for enough blood to flow through your arteries. This is a precursor to heart disease.
Although this process often goes undetected, some people may experience symptoms.
For example, yellow bumps, also known as xanthelasma, can show up around the eyes or nose. They’re made of cholesterol deposits.
“In some people, it’s a sign that you have high cholesterol,” said Doctor Daveluy, MD, FAAD, a dermatologist with the Wayne State University School of Medicine in Dearborn, Michigan.
“But in about half of people, it’s not.”
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The British Heart Foundation (BHF) explains: “Getting your blood pumping by doing exercise will reduce your cholesterol.”
According to the BHF, being active helps your body move the bad cholesterol to your liver where it can be removed out of your system.
“You don’t have to join a gym or go on long runs if you don’t enjoy it, just look for chances to move more every day.”
You could try:
- Taking the stairs instead of the lift
- A brisk walk instead of a slow walk
- Doing two-minute bursts of jumping jacks several times a day
- Yoga or pilates if you can’t get out.