Definition
Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood derived from excess calories, sugar and alcohol consumption that contribute to heart disease at high levels.
Explanation
- Triglycerides come primarily from liver production and diet. Levels above 150 mg/dL indicate higher heart disease risk.
- They circulate in blood until deposited into fat cells for storage. Excess intake surpasses fat storage capacity, elevating triglycerides.
- High triglycerides correlate with obesity, insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome and cardiovascular disease. They lower HDL cholesterol.
- A low carb diet, omega-3s, exercise, weight loss, limiting alcohol and certain medications help lower triglyceride levels.
Examples
- Correcting a triglyceride level of 250 mg/dL through diet and exercise changes.
- Keeping triglycerides under 100 mg/dL with a Mediterranean style low sugar diet.
Related Terms
- LDL, HDL, cholesterol panel, lipid profile, blood lipids
Common Questions
- How fast can I lower triglycerides? They respond within weeks of reducing sugar and refined carbs through diet.
- What is a healthy triglyceride level? Below 150 mg/dL is ideal, under 100 mg/dL is optimal.
Do Not Confuse With
- Triglyceride storage – Fat cells storing excess calories converted to triglycerides.
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