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SummaryWhat are triglycerides?Triglycerides are a type of fat. They are the most common type of fat in your body. They come from foods, especially butter, oils, and other fats you eat. Triglycerides also come from extra calories. These are the calories that you eat, but your body does not need right away. Your body changes these extra calories into triglycerides and stores them in fat cells. When your body needs energy, it releases the triglycerides. Your VLDL cholesterol particles carry the triglycerides to your tissues. Having a high level of triglycerides can raise your risk of heart diseases, such as coronary artery disease. What causes high triglycerides?Factors that can raise your triglyceride level include:
How are high triglycerides diagnosed?There is a blood test that measures your triglycerides, along with your cholesterol. Triglyceride levels are measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL). The guidelines for triglyceride levels are
Levels above 150mg/dl may raise your risk for heart disease. A triglyceride level of 150 mg/dL or higher is also a risk factor for metabolic syndrome. What are the treatments for high triglycerides?You may be able to lower your triglyceride levels with lifestyle changes:
Some people will also need to take cholesterol medicines to lower their triglycerides. Start Here
What are the warning signs of high triglycerides?Very high triglycerides may cause blocking of the blood supply to your heart or your brain. Symptoms of decreased blood supply to your heart could include chest pain. Decreased blood supply to your brain could cause numbness, dizziness, confusion, blurred vision, or severe headache.
What organ is affected by high triglycerides?Triglycerides and Your Pancreas
If you have very high triglycerides—over 500 mg/dL—your pancreas can take a serious hit. The pancreas is an organ that helps turn food into fuel in the body. And those with triglycerides this high are at risk for developing a severe form of inflammation called acute pancreatitis.
What foods contribute to high triglycerides?Sugary food and drinks, saturated fats, refined grains, alcohol, and high-calorie foods can all lead to high levels of triglycerides.. Enriched or bleached white bread, wheat bread, or pasta.. Sugary cereals.. Instant rice.. Bagels.. Pizza.. Pastries, pies, cookies, and cakes.. How do you lower your triglycerides?8 Ways to Lower Your Triglycerides (and Cholesterol) With Lifestyle Changes. Avoid excess sugar. ... . Resist refined foods. ... . Add more fiber to your diet. ... . Choose healthy fats over saturated fats. ... . Know the dangers of trans fats. ... . Cut back on alcohol. ... . Exercise. ... . Control your weight.. |