Many amongst us suffer from the problem of high levels of triglycerides. Studies have shown that high triglyceride levels can cause heart ailments especially heart attacks and stroke, with these conditions becoming more prevalent for people with low levels of HDL (good cholesterol). Patients suffering from Type 2 Diabetes are also at an increased risk of contracting this condition, i.e., triglycerides and diabetes have a deeper connection.
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The Triglycerides levels are generally checked by doing a fasting blood test (you are expected to keep an empty stomach till your blood sample is collected). This is typically a cholesterol test, which is also known as the Lipid profile or Lipid panel.
Very high levels of triglycerides are also known to cause liver and pancreatic problems.
Lifestyle changes include dietary changes such as reduction of carbohydrate intake, avoidance of sugar-sweetened beverages, and processed carbohydrates, regular exercise, and weight loss. Weight loss of 5% to 10% is associated with a reduction of triglyceride levels. Similarly, regular aerobic exercise can reduce triglycerides.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Triglycerides are a fat type that is found in our blood and are generally stored in the fat cells. When we eat, any calories that our body doesn’t need to get converted into triglycerides.
So, when we are consuming calories at a faster rate but burning them at a slower pace, it will cause triglyceride levels to rise. An elevated level of triglycerides in the blood is called Hypertriglyceridemia.
It is a myth that only people over 35 Need to Be Tested for Lipid profile. The fact is that your cholesterol should be checked every 5 years from childhood to middle age. Men ages 45 to 65 and women ages 55 to 65 should have it checked every 1-2 years. After age 65, make it yearly. If you have high cholesterol, you may need more frequent testing to make sure your meds and lifestyle changes are working.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D
As triglycerides are simply stores of fat, they can’t really move about in your body by themselves. Lipoproteins carry these triglycerides around your body to the cells they need to reach through your blood.
Keep in mind, that these fatty deposits are vital and an essential part of your normal bodily function. But when the triglycerides level is too high and when it is accompanied by high levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) this can be dangerous.
When the triglyceride levels are high, there may not be any symptoms as it is also a silent health problem. However, it does have health implications – it increases the likelihood of a heart attack or a stroke.
High triglycerides also indicate that you may be insulin-resistant, i.e., your body is not using the insulin hormone properly. This means you are unable to control your blood sugar levels and because of this, you could be a pre-diabetic which will eventually end up as Type 2 diabetes.
High triglycerides also harden the arteries and cause inflammation in the pancreas. If the inflammation in the pancreas continues it will cause pancreatitis.
High levels of triglycerides also indicate fatty liver disease. Bad lifestyle choices, especially wrong food choices lead to the accumulation of fats in the bloodstream, i.e., triglycerides. These fat deposits are also found in the liver.
To check for fatty liver, you should get liver function tests such as ALT and AST done. Like triglycerides, the fatty liver also does not show any symptoms. However, if ignored, it can lead to liver cirrhosis or permanent damage.
How to Control:
One of the best ways to control the triglyceride levels in the body is by making healthy lifestyle changes!
Triglycerides and alcohol don’t go together! Alcohol is extremely high on calories and is known for its high sugar content. Thus, if you have been diagnosed with high triglyceride levels, you must keep a check on your alcohol intake.
Regular bouts of physical activity do wonders for our body. Aim to reserve at least 30 minutes each day and do yoga, walking, stretching, swimming, etc. Keep changing your exercise routine so that your body doesn’t get accustomed to one exercise regime and the variety also keeps you motivated. Studies prove that regular exercising helps to combat triglyceride levels and also aids in the production of ‘good’ cholesterol. So, on days when you are thoroughly pressed for time, ditch the lift and take the stairs instead.
If you are obese, it is extremely pivotal that you shed those extra pounds. Resort to a healthy diet and always aim to maintain ideal body weight. When you focus on your diet – try to eat fewer calories. Instead, focus on a high intake of fresh fruits and veggies and cut down the consumption of sugary foods like soda and other aerated drinks.
When it comes to your fat intake, eat good healthy fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in food items such as fish, olive oil, etc. Refrain from eating unhealthy fats which are found in food items such as cheese, butter, etc.
Avoid the intake of food items that are rich in refined carbohydrates such as white flour as they tend to up your triglycerides levels.
An increase in the proportions of fiber in your diet also helps to up the absorption of fat by the body. This helps to reduce the triglycerides levels in the blood too.
As far as possible, adhere to a fixed meal pattern by eating at regular intervals. Diet and positive lifestyle-related changes are two crucial factors that can help to manage and maintain your triglyceride levels.
If after regular checking too, if your triglyceride level count doesn’t fall within the prescribed range then probably it’s time you consult your doctor. The doctor may then have to prescribe medication to bring the levels to a normal range.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
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Ref
1.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33797418/
2.https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/aha-diet-and-lifestyle-recommendations#:~:text=a%20wide%20variety%20of%20fruits,liquid%20non%2Dtropical%20vegetable%20oils
. 3.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6320919/#:~:text=The%20DASH%20diet%20is%20characterized,grains%20%5B89%2C99%5D.
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28840462/
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