What is cholesterol? It's a word most people are familiar with, but few actually know what it is or what it does in the body. Cholesterol is actually a type of fat which is essential for good health and is found in every cell in the body. The body manufactures it, and you can also get it in certain foods (e.g. eggs).

However, too much is associated with an increased risk of heart disease and stroke. The main causes include a diet that's high in saturated fat, lack of exercise and being overweight. A healthy diet and plenty of exercise is thus the best solution.