Triglycerides: What You Need to Know

 Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood. They are made up of three fatty acids attached to a glycerol molecule. Triglycerides are a major source of energy for the body, and they also help to insulate the body and protect organs.

However, high levels of triglycerides in the blood can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems.

What are normal triglyceride levels?

Normal triglyceride levels for adults are less than 150 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). Levels between 150 and 199 mg/dL are considered borderline high, and levels of 200 mg/dL or higher are considered high.

What are the causes of high triglycerides?

There are many factors that can contribute to high triglyceride levels, including:

• Diet: Eating a diet high in saturated and trans fats can increase triglyceride levels.
• Alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol can also increase triglyceride levels.
• Obesity: People who are obese are more likely to have high triglyceride levels.
• Diabetes: People with diabetes are more likely to have high triglyceride levels.
• Certain medications: Some medications, such as steroids and birth control pills, can increase triglyceride levels.
• Family history: People who have a family history of high triglyceride levels are more likely to develop the condition themselves.

How can I lower my triglyceride levels?

There are a number of things you can do to lower your triglyceride levels, including:

• Eat a healthy diet: This includes eating plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. It also means limiting your intake of saturated and trans fats, processed foods, and sugary drinks.
• Get regular exercise: Exercise helps to lower triglyceride levels and improve overall heart health.
• Lose weight: If you are overweight or obese, losing even a small amount of weight can help to lower your triglyceride levels.
• Avoid alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol can increase triglyceride levels.
• Quit smoking: Smoking can increase triglyceride levels.
• Take medication: If your triglyceride levels are high, your doctor may prescribe medication to help lower them.

What are the risks of high triglycerides?

High triglyceride levels can increase the risk of a number of health problems, including:

• Heart disease: High triglyceride levels can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke.
• Pancreatitis: High triglyceride levels can increase the risk of pancreatitis, a serious inflammation of the pancreas.
• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD): NAFLD is a condition that causes fat to build up in the liver. High triglyceride levels are a risk factor for NAFLD.

How can I prevent high triglycerides?

The best way to prevent high triglycerides is to adopt a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a healthy diet, getting regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight. If you have any risk factors for high triglycerides, such as a family history of the condition, it is important to talk to your doctor about ways to lower your risk.