Triglyceride Treatment

Triglycerides are a type of fat in the bloodstream. You may be at risk for high triglyceride levels if you commonly consume more calories than you use. Maintaining a low level of both cholesterol and triglycerides is essential for heart health and preventing diseases such as coronary artery disease. Often, simple diet and exercise changes are enough to bring your triglyceride levels down to a normal range.

Range

• A normal range of triglycerides is less than 150 mg/dL. A borderline high range is 150 to 199 mg/dL, whereas a high range is above 200 mg/dL.

Excess Weight

• Losing weight can help you lower your triglyceride level. Cut back on calories because your body converts any extra calories to triglycerides and stores them.

Sugar

• Sugar and other simple carbohydrates, such as white flour, will increase your insulin levels, which results in an elevation in triglycerides.

Fat

• Choose sources of monounsaturated fat (olive and peanut oils) rather than saturated fat, trans fat and sources of cholesterol (fried foods and animal products).

Alcohol

• Refrain from drinking alcohol, as even consuming alcohol in moderation can raise your triglyceride levels.

Exercise

• Get plenty of exercise to lose weight and lower your triglyceride level. Try to work out for 30 minutes per day.