Alcohol & Triglycerides

Triglycerides are the chemical form of fat that are contained in food and in the body's blood. The body converts calories not used immediately into triglycerides, then moves them to fat cells to be stored for later energy needs. If the body needs energy between meals, hormones release the stored triglycerides. Triglycerides are vital for optimal health. Ttoo many stored triglycerides (hypertriglyceridemia), however, can be a health risk that is linked to coronary artery disease and strokes. Alcohol can exacerbate this condition.

Triglyceride Levels

• Triglyceride levels are measured by a blood test that is analyzed in a laboratory. If your results are under 150 mg/dl, do not worry. If they are between 150-200 mg/dl, the level is considered borderline and it is a good idea to address ways to lower them. Anything above 200 mg/dl is high, and your physician will give you a list of interventions that include dietary changes and exercise (and possible medication). If the blood plasma level of triglycerides is above 500 mg/dl, the intervention will include medication.

How to Reduce Triglycerides

• The American Heart Association's (AHA) guidelines to reduce elevated levels of triglycerides include losing weight if you are overweight. If you have high levels, limit trans and saturated fats (check food labels for food content information). The AHA strongly advises to limit alcohol intake because alcohol significantly increases the blood plasma triglyceride levels.

Why Alcohol Affects Triglyceride Levels

• Alcohol is basically fermented sugar. The liver prioritizes removing alcohol from the blood, but it is a relatively slow process (about 1 ounce per hour). In the meantime, some of the sugar of the alcohol is being changed into triglycerides. In addition, alcohol causes the liver to actually produce more triglycerides. This is due to alcohol's effect of reducing an enzyme that breaks down triglycerides.

Limiting Alcohol Intake

• Alcohol limitation for some may be a simple task. If fit is not easy for you, you may need help. Alcohol is addictive. If you believe you may have a problem with alcohol, it is actually dangerous to attempt to stop by yourself. Withdrawal from alcohol can cause effects including delusions, seizures, delirium tremors and sometimes death. Seek medical detox. You can find out more about alcohol withdrawal by calling the [phone]. This is a 24-hour hotline that is staffed by people who are supportive and able to give you answers, encouragement and referrals.

Work With Your Physician

• Triglycerides in high levels can be dangerous. Alcohol can increase the danger. Therefore, it is important to be honest with your physician about your lifestyle when discussing ways to control your triglycerides. Your physician can help you find support and give local referrals to help you as you attempt to begin the process of becoming healthy.