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Triglyceride Reduction Treatment

High triglyceride levels leave you at risk of heart disease. They can cause the arteries to harden and thicken, which contributes to stroke, heart attack and other problems of the cardiovascular system. In addition, high triglycerides often indicate a medical problem or unhealthy lifestyle that further increases your risk. Lowering triglycerides is a matter of maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly and taking prescription medication when necessary.

  1. Cut Excess Weight

    • Overweight people run a higher risk of having high triglycerides. According to the Mayo Clinic, losing extra pounds not only reduces your risk of high triglycerides, it can help you adapt a healthier lifestyle to keep triglyceride at safe levels. Exercise is key; even 30 minutes of moderate activity a day can help.

    Eat Healthy

    • Even if you're not overweight, eating irresponsibly can cause high triglycerides. Meet your basic calorie needs (see Resources) but do not exceed them. Your body converts extra calories to triglycerides. Limit sugars and refined foods; these trigger insulin production and can increase triglycerides.

      The Mayo Clinic recommends limiting dietary cholesterol to 300mg a day, and substituting saturated fat for heart-healthy monounsaturated fat. Good sources include olive oil, peanut oil and canola oil. Instead of red meat, eat chicken or fish such as mackerel and salmon.

      Eliminate trans fat by avoiding any product whose label contains the word "hydrogenated." Many cities have banned the use of trans fats in restaurants, and some restaurants have done this voluntarily and will advertise this fact to attract health-conscious customers.

    Avoid Alcohol

    • Reduce drinking alcoholic beverages, or eliminate them completely. When it comes to triglycerides, alcohol packs a doubly dangerous punch. It's full of calories, and even small amounts can cause your triglyceride levels to spike.

    Medical Treatment

    • Stubborn triglyceride levels may require medication. Niacin and fibrates are common prescriptions. Drug treatment works in itself, but medications are most effective when accompanied by lifestyle changes.

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