Lowering Triglycerides With Plant Sterols

Lowering your triglycerides is an essential part of lowering your overall blood fat levels. Triglycerides, a type of fat, are similar to cholesterol in that they can contribute to health problems, like heart disease. According to the National Institutes of Health, plant sterols can help lower both triglycerides and cholesterol. Plant sterols are a part of a plant membrane. They occur naturally in plant-based foods, such as fruits, seeds and even vegetable oil.

Things You'll Need

• Medications
• Fortified food
• Plant sterol pill

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Instructions

• 1

  Talk to your doctor before you begin any new health regimen. If your doctor is treating you for high triglycerides, ask him whether plant sterols may be a beneficial complementary therapy for you.

• 2

  Take any medications prescribed for you; do not avoid taking cholesterol-lowering medications in favor of an alternative treatment. Similarly, continue to practice healthy lifestyle habits, such as a healthy diet and exercise routine, to facilitate healthy triglyceride levels.

• 3

  Consume a plant sterol-fortified food every day. According to The Diet Channel, while sterols occur naturally in plant-based foods, the amount is negligible. Instead, consume a food that is fortified with plant sterols. Some examples include yogurt, cheese, orange juice and granola bars. Read the labels on the food products to evaluate the amount of plant sterols per serving. According to the Mayo Clinic, you need at least 2 g of plant sterols daily to help lower your cholesterol and triglycerides.

• 4

  Ask your doctor about taking a plant sterol pill. If you are having trouble consuming adequate amounts of plant sterol-fortified food, a pill may be a preferable option for you. Follow your doctor's advice regarding dosages.