Triglycerides are fats in your blood; find out how they’re stored, what healthy levels look like, and how lifestyle changes or medication can help manage high triglycerides for better heart health.
High triglycerides, or fats, can be linked to heart issues, and fats, well, they’re a necessity in our daily lives, aren’t they? But what exactly are these triglycerides, and why do we hear so much about them? We’ll dig into it.
- What Are Triglycerides?
- How Does the Body Store Triglycerides?
- How to Keep Triglycerides in the Body at a Healthy Level
- Causes of High Triglycerides in the Body
- How to Analyze Triglycerides?
- What Is Normal in Triglycerides?
- Risks of High Levels of Triglycerides
- What Are the Best Ways to Lower Triglycerides?
- What Is the Difference Between Triglycerides and Cholesterol?
What Are Triglycerides?
Triglycerides are a type of fat made of three fatty acids, and each of these is linked to a glycerol molecule. They’re obtained from food or made in the liver.
The body gets triglycerides from food; they’re transported through the blood to all the cells to be used as a source of energy. When we consume more calories than our body needs, it stores the excess as triglycerides in fat cells throughout the body.
High triglyceride levels can be tied to heart disease, but in some cases, it’s pretty manageable and can be treated by making lifestyle changes or with medical treatments. We’ve noticed that sometimes, simple changes in diet, alongside targeted medical interventions, can really move the needle. Finding that sweet spot can make a world of difference!
How Does the Body Store Triglycerides?
When we eat, our bodies convert any calories that we don’t need right away into triglycerides. Think of them as energy reserves! These triglycerides are then stored in our fat cells. Later, hormones release these triglycerides to give us energy between meals. But too many triglycerides sitting around isn’t a great scene, as it can affect our overall health.
Speaking of storage, what about the fat we can’t see? You know, visceral fat. It’s tucked deep inside, surrounding our organs. How does that impact triglyceride levels? And what about sneaky sugars and refined carbs? Do they play a bigger role than, say, dietary fats? It’s something to ponder, isn’t it?
How to Keep Triglycerides in the Body at a Healthy Level
When we eat, the body turns any extra calories that it doesn’t immediately need into triglycerides, storing them in fat cells. Hormones release these triglycerides for energy between meals. But the amount of fat we consume, especially saturated and trans fats, can impact triglyceride levels.
Also, too much of anything, like fats found in butter, oils, and sweets, will cause triglyceride levels to be high.
Causes of High Triglycerides in the Body
There are many reasons why triglycerides might be high in the body, the most important of which are:
- Obesity.
- Excessive weight.
- Poor diet.
- Sugars.
- Drinking alcohol to excess.
- Smoking.
- Consuming more calories than are burned.
- High blood sugar.
- Genetic causes.
- Kidney or liver diseases.
- Some medications, such as:
- Birth control pills.
- Beta-blockers.
- Estrogen.
- Steroids.
How to Analyze Triglycerides?
Usually, triglyceride analysis is part of a lipid profile, which measures fat levels in the blood, including triglycerides and cholesterol, both the good and bad kinds.
Your doctor might ask you to fast for 9 to 12 hours before the blood sample, so the results are accurate and clear. I remember one time, I accidentally ate a tiny snack before my test and had to reschedule. Oops!
The American Heart Association recommends that all adults 21 and older have their triglycerides checked every 5 years.
What Is Normal in Triglycerides?
A simple blood test will reveal if triglyceride levels are within the healthy range, and the results will be as follows:
Triglyceride Levels | Result per Milligram/Deciliter Unit |
Normal | Less than 150 |
Borderline high | 150 – 199 |
High | 200 – 499 |
Very high | 500 or more |
Risks of High Levels of Triglycerides
If triglycerides are not reduced in the body, they can lead to several dangerous diseases, including:
- Arteriosclerosis.
- Stroke.
- Heart attack.
- Heart diseases.
- Acute pancreatitis.
What Are the Best Ways to Lower Triglycerides?
There are several ways to lower triglyceride levels in your body, including:
1. Making Changes in Lifestyle
You can start by changing your lifestyle by following these tips:
- Weight loss: If you’re overweight, losing weight can help lower triglyceride levels.
- Limiting calories: Remember that the body turns extra calories into triglycerides and stores them as fat, so cutting calories can help.
- Choosing healthy fats: Focus on eating healthy fats and avoiding saturated fats.
- Regular exercise: Try to exercise for at least 30 minutes daily, as it can lower triglycerides and increase good cholesterol.
- Other healthy changes: Which include:
- Quitting smoking.
- Reducing alcohol intake.
- Limiting sugars and refined carbs.
- Getting enough sleep.
- Reducing stress.
2. Medications
If healthy lifestyle changes aren’t enough to lower triglycerides, your doctor may prescribe:
- Cholesterol-lowering drugs: Your doctor may prescribe cholesterol-lowering medications.
- Fish oil: Fish oil contains omega-3 fatty acids, which can help lower triglyceride levels.
What Is the Difference Between Triglycerides and Cholesterol?
Triglycerides and cholesterol are different types of fats that circulate in the blood, and their function differs as follows:
- Triglycerides store unused calories and provide the body with energy.
- Cholesterol is used to build cells and some hormones.
It’s worth mentioning that triglycerides and cholesterol can’t dissolve in the blood, so they’re transported throughout the body with the help of proteins called lipoproteins.
Key takeaways
- Triglycerides are a type of fat that store energy for later use.
- High triglycerides can increase the risk of heart disease and stroke.
- Lifestyle changes, like diet and exercise, can significantly impact triglyceride levels.
FAQ, Myth & Facts
Are triglycerides the same as cholesterol?
Nope! They’re both fats in the blood, but triglycerides store unused calories, while cholesterol builds cells.
Can I lower my triglycerides with diet alone?
Often, yes! Cutting back on sugar, refined carbs, and unhealthy fats can make a big difference. But sometimes, medication is needed too.
Is exercise really that important for managing triglycerides?
Absolutely! Regular physical activity helps burn excess triglycerides and boost good cholesterol.
Are there any genetic factors involved in high triglycerides?
Yes, genetics can play a role. If high triglycerides run in your family, you might be more prone to having them, even with a healthy lifestyle.
One person mentioned that, “After struggling with high triglycerides for years, I started incorporating more omega-3s into my diet and exercising regularly. It’s amazing how much of a difference those simple changes made!”
Another said, “I was really worried about my triglyceride levels until my doctor helped me understand the importance of cutting back on sugary drinks and processed foods. Now, my levels are much better, and I feel healthier overall.”
Someone else shared, “I always thought high triglycerides were just a problem for older people, but I was surprised to learn that even young adults can struggle with them. Getting regular check-ups and staying active is crucial!”
So, where do we go from here? Maybe we’ll think twice before reaching for that extra sugary snack, right? Or, at least, we can commit to a brisk walk later. It’s all about making those small tweaks that add up to a healthier us, one step at a time. I know, for me, it’s a constant reminder to keep those fries as an occasional treat—not a daily staple. Wish me luck!
