The ‘cholesterol ring’ represents negative cholesterol levels, or elevated LDL (bad cholesterol) levels in the body. It presents as a discoloured ring around the outer edge of the iris, and is commonly seen in the elderly, as well as those suffering from obesity. In conjunction to the cholesterol ring, there may be uneven parallel lines or sandwich lines showing fat or plaque build-up in the arteries. In this circumstance, a change in diet is essential in reducing LDL cholesterol levels and increasing HDL levels to avoid future risk of heart disease.
Note: If the ring is of a green/copper colour, this represents copper toxicity and copper build-up in the body. Very often seen in older people, as use of copper pipes and copper cooking instruments was once a very common thing. Unfortunately, the heating of copper can allow small amounts of the heavy metal to leach into the food, which is then consumed. Over time, the copper can build-up to unhealthy levels in body tissues.