Lowering triglycerides is very important because too much triglycerides in the body may increase the risk of serious health problems like stroke and heart attack. Normalizing triglycerides is necessary through medications, regular exercise and lifestyle change.
What are Triglycerides?
Triglycerides are lipids that are found in the blood. When a person eats, the body will convert the unneeded triglycerides and store them in the fat cells. Later when the body needs energy, it will release the stored triglycerides.
If a person eats high caloric foods that contain fats and carbohydrates more than a person actually burns, high triglycerides will develop.
Triglycerides level is determine through blood test. Four classifications of triglycerides are:
- Normal triglyceride is considered with less than 150 (mg/dL)
- Triglyceride is in the borderline high with 150 to 199 (mg/dL)
- High triglyceride is between 200 to 499 (mg/dL)
- Triglyceride is very high with 500 mg/dL or above
Though normal triglyceride is less than 150 mg/dL, doctors advised that a person should aim with less than 100 mg/dL for optimal health. The optimal level is great for reducing the risk of stroke and heart related diseases.
What are Causes of High Triglycerides?
Increase levels of high triglycerides are often symptoms of metabolic illness like diabetes. Other causes of high triglycerides are:
- Overweight
- Too much alcohol intake
- Hypothyroidism
- Kidney problems
- Eating calories more than the body can burn
Certain medications can also increase level of triglycerides. Some of these medications are:
- Steroidal medicines
- Diuretics
- Estrogen
- Birth control pills
In other case, high triglyceride is a genetic problem.
What are the Symptoms of High Triglycerides?
High triglycerides do not have show initial symptoms immediately. Symptoms are normally seen when a severe damage has already been done. Some symptoms of high triglycerides are:
- Enlargement of the spleen
- Inflammation of pancreas
- Fatty liver
- Fat deposits found underneath the skin
Treatments on Lowering Triglycerides
Lowering triglycerides is very important because it is related to different other chronic conditions. Decreasing factors of triglycerides will lessen the risk of cholesterol, kidney ailments, fatty liver and other heart disorders. Lowering triglycerides is possible with the use different approaches. Some treatments on lowering triglycerides are:
           1. Medicines
Medicines are given on patients with triglycerides. Medicines are one way to decrease  the level of triglycerides. However, this is the last option given by medical health  providers because other health related conditions are related with the triglycerides. Ask your doctor if taking medicines for triglycerides will not complicate with other medications.
2. Omega 3 fatty acids
Omega 3 fatty acids are good form of fats. These are usually found in tuna, mackerel and salmon. Â Aside from fish, these are also obtain through oral supplements. These are often given to patients with other health related problems but it is also effective in lowering their high triglycerides. However, this should be taken with the approval of your doctor. Do not take any supplements without any approval.
3. Avoid alcohol
All types of alcohol increases the level of triglycerides. Wine, beer and other types of alcoholic beverages have the same effect. Even few glasses of alcohol can easily increase triglycerides, thus, eliminating it all together is necessary.
           4. Increase intake of fiber foods
Lowering triglycerides is possible by eating fiber foods. You may slowly introduce fiber foods in your diet. Some examples of fiber foods are whole grains, oat, beans and rice bran.
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           5. Lower intake of sweets
Sweets quickly increase triglycerides levels. Avoiding soda, cakes and pastries may lower triglycerides in the long term.
6. Eat dried beans and soy
Protein from vegetables can help in lowering triglycerides. Examples of these are dried beans and soy based products help in decreasing triglycerides.
           7. Regular exercise
Regular exercise will increase the good cholesterol and burn off the unnecessary levels of triglycerides. Burning off through regular exercise at least five times a week will help in lowering triglycerides. Ask first your medical health provider if what type of exercise regimen is recommended for you.
8. Maintain healthy weight
Studies show that obesity is closely related to triglycerides in the body. Achieving your normal and balance weight will cut the risk of increasing your triglycerides. Ask a licensed dietician to know the healthy diet according to your age and height.
Here are some ways on lowering triglycerides. Following these steps will not just lower your triglycerides but may also help you in lowering your cholesterol level. However, if you have other existing ailments, like diabetes and heart problems, ask your doctor for added information.