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What Are Some Treatments to Lower Triglycerides?

Although they're both fats, triglycerides and cholesterol are not the same. Unlike cholesterol, triglycerides provide energy. Unfortunately, triglycerides can have the same harmful effect on health as some types of cholesterol, raising your risk of developing heart disease. Several lifestyle modifications can lower your triglycerides, and medications also are available that will do the same.

  1. Lifestyle

    • Exercise can help lower triglyceride levels. You ideally should exercise for at least 30 minutes every day, although resting for a day or two of the week may be a more realistic goal. Cutting down on alcohol intake can also lower triglycerides. Certain supplements also can have an effect on triglyceride levels such as flaxseed, fish oil and garlic supplements. Some of these supplements can cause side effects and interact with medications, so be careful and make sure your supplement will work with your daily medication regimen before you start taking it.

    Diet

    • If you want to lower your triglyceride levels, cut down on what you eat. Fewer calories per day mean fewer triglycerides. More precisely, eat less sugar, processed carbohydrates like white bread, and bad fats. Replace harmful saturated fats with monounsaturated fats like olive and peanut oil, and eat more fish and less red meat. Eliminate trans fats from your diet. Fruits and vegetables are always good picks for people watching their triglyceride levels.

    Medication

    • If your triglyceride levels don't fall enough with lifestyle and diet changes alone, medications also can be used to get rid of triglycerides. Niacin and fibrates target triglycerides and are often used along with statins that lower overall "bad" cholesterol. If you are prescribed medication, don't expect it to be a cure-all for your high triglyceride levels. You will still have to keep healthy habits going strong.

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