High Triglyceride

Bottle of olive oil, with fresh basil and rosemary.

Triglycerides are a type of fat found in people's blood that a body uses to help make energy. A person needs some triglycerides in his or her body in order to become and stay healthy; however, having a high level of triglycerides puts a person at a higher risk of developing heart disease as well as metabolic syndrome.

What causes high triglycerides?

There are several things that can contribute to an individualÕs high level of triglycerides, with obesity typically being the main factor. Eating a well-balanced, healthy diet and exercising properly can help lower a person's high triglyceride level as well as ensure that those who have normal triglyceride levels can maintain them at a healthy level. A person who consumes more alcohol than the considered norm or who does not have control over his or her diabetes is also more susceptible to a higher level of triglycerides.

Eating properly and excercising is the best way to avoid a high triglyceride level.

How can you lower a high triglyceride level?

As mentioned above, a healthy diet, exercising and maintaining a healthy body weight are great ways to lower triglyceride levels. Managing intakes of sugar and fat also lower high triglycerides, as well as not smoking and limiting alcohol consumption. There are no symptoms for having a high level of triglycerides, so having a cholesterol and triglyceride check at an annual physical exam is a good idea.

Can anything else cause high triglyceride levels?

There are several types of medications that can raise triglyceride levels in the body: tamoxifen, steroids, beta-blockers, diuretics, estrogen and birth control pills. Kidney disease or family genetics can also cause high triglyceride levels.

What about medications for controlling high levels?

While medication may be an option or necessity, it is likely the doctor would also encourage proper diet and exercise in addition to a medication. There are several different main types of medication; only a doctor can know which type will work best for a specific person as there can be cross and side-effects.

Having a high level of triglycerides is not always easily lowered or controlled, but with determination and effort it can be done. Keeping a healthy body weight, eating in a healthy manner and exercising are the best ways to both lower high triglyceride levels as well as maintain normal levels.

Eating in a healthy manner and excercising are the best ways to lower high triglycerides