 What If......my triglycerides are high?
Most fat in foods, and in your body, takes the form of
triglycerides. When you consume more calories than you need, the
extras are converted to triglycerides and stored in fat cells. Then
later, when your body needs energy, certain hormones trigger the
release of triglycerides to meet the demand.
Why is a high Triglyceride score bad?
Some research has shown that people with a high triglyceride
level are at increased risk of heart disease. They also are likely
to have high total cholesterol, low HDL (High Density lipoprotein)
and high LDL (Low Density Lipoprotein) - all risk factors for heart
disease.
What scores are good or bad?
The American Heart Association offers these guidelines for
assessing triglyceride levels.
- Normal: less than 150 mg/dl (milligrams per deciliter)
- Borderline High: 150 to 199 mg/dl
- High: 200 to 499 mg/dl
- Very High: over 500 mg/dl
What can I do to lower my Triglyceride level?
If your triglycerides are higher than 150 mg/dl, your doctor may
recommend:
- Avoiding foods high in cholesterol and saturated fat
- Exercising for at least 30 minutes a day
- Quitting smoking
- May need to also watch carbohydrate intake, since too many
carbs can raise triglycerides while reducing HDL
If your triglycerides are over 200, you can still benefit from
lifestyle changes. But, you may also need medication to reduce your
triglycerides to a healthier level. Your doctor can determine the
best course.
For more information:
http://www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/ency/article/003493.htm
http://www.americanheart.org/presenter.jhtml?identifier=4778
http://nhlbisupport.com/chd1/tri.htm
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