Dr.Alok Purohit (PhD), Health Coach, Diabetes and Obesity educator

Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the bloodstream and are essential for providing energy to the body. However, high levels of triglycerides can be a ticking time bomb for cardiovascular health. In this blog post, we will discuss the risks associated with high levels of triglycerides and how to manage them effectively.

What are Triglycerides?

Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the bloodstream. They are formed by combining three fatty acids with a glycerol molecule. Triglycerides are essential for providing energy to the body, but they can become a health concern when levels are too high. Usually it is the bodys response to unmanageable/excess inflow of calories that landed inside and those unused calories are shunted into blood and gets stored in adipose tissue to be used during fasting as required between meals. Classic case in point is heavy sugar intake, sweet sodas and alcohol.

Why are high levels of triglycerides concerning?

High levels of triglycerides are concerning because they can contribute to the development of cardiovascular disease. When triglyceride levels are high, they can build up on the walls of arteries and form plaque. This can lead to atherosclerosis, which is the hardening and narrowing of arteries, and can ultimately lead to heart attack or stroke.

What are the risk factors for high triglycerides?

Several factors can increase a person’s risk of developing high levels of triglycerides, including:

• Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase triglyceride levels.
• Unhealthy diet: A diet high in saturated and trans fats, sugar, and refined carbohydrates can increase triglyceride levels.
• Lack of exercise: Regular physical activity can help lower triglyceride levels.
• Smoking: Smoking can increase triglyceride levels and decrease HDL, or “good” cholesterol levels.
• Genetics: Some people may be more predisposed to high triglyceride levels due to their genetics.

How can high triglycerides be managed?

Managing high triglycerides involves lifestyle changes and, in some cases, medication. Here are some ways to manage high triglycerides:

• Eat a healthy diet: A healthy diet should be low in saturated and trans fats, sugar, and refined carbohydrates. Instead, focus on whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and healthy fats like nuts and avocados.
• Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help lower triglyceride levels.
• Lose weight: Losing weight can help lower triglyceride levels.
• Quit smoking: Quitting smoking can help lower triglyceride levels and increase HDL, or “good” cholesterol levels.
• Medication: If lifestyle changes are not enough to lower triglyceride levels, medication may be necessary. Several medications can help lower triglyceride levels, including statins, fibric acid derivatives, and omega-3 fatty acid supplements.

Conclusion

Triglycerides are an essential type of fat found in the bloodstream, but high levels can be a ticking time bomb for cardiovascular health. Risk factors for high triglycerides include obesity, an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise, smoking, and genetics. To manage high triglycerides, lifestyle changes such as eating a healthy diet, regular exercise, losing weight, and quitting smoking are crucial. In some cases, medication may also be necessary. By managing high triglycerides effectively, individuals can significantly reduce their risk of developing cardiovascular disease.

References:

• American Heart Association. (n.d.). Triglycerides. https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/about-cholesterol/triglycerides.
• Mayo Clinic. (2021, June 18). Triglycerides: Why do they matter? https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/triglycerides/art-20048186.
• MedlinePlus. (2022, February 15). Triglycerides. https://medlineplus.gov/triglycerides.html.