Ways to Reduce Triglycerides

Triglycerides are fat cells in the body that, if uncontrolled, can lead to an array of dangerous health conditions. Healthy triglyceride levels range from 100mg/dL to 199mg/dL. High levels of triglycerides can lead to stroke and heart disease. Heart attacks can occur as a result of triglycerides blocking the arteries. High levels also can be indicative of hypothyroidism, liver and kidney diseases and untreated type 2 diabetes. Triglycerides can be reduced by maintaining a healthy lifestyle and by avoiding certain foods. In some cases, prescription drugs need to be taken.

Things to Avoid

• Triglycerides originate from carbohydrates that convert to glucose. The glucose turns into glycogen, which is used by muscles throughout the body. Excess levels of glycogen become triglycerides, many of which build up in the bloodstream. The primary way to reduce triglycerides in your body is by limiting the amount of carbohydrates in your diet. Many patients with high levels of triglycerides opt for low-carb diets, such as Atkins, to help reduce triglycerides.

  Sugar intake should be limited, because it is also turned into glucose when consumed. Avoid alcohol, as it, too, ends up being converted into glucose.

  Cholesterol and triglycerides often go hand in hand; if an individual has high triglyceride levels, he likely has high cholesterol levels. Consume no more than 300 milligrams of cholesterol a day.

  Avoid hydrogenated oils and trans fats found in many packaged and processed foods. Animal fats found naturally in meats and eggs can be consumed in moderation.

  Vitamin C and omega-3 fatty acids should be included as part of a healthy diet to reduce triglycerides and cholesterol.

Medications

• When a healthy, low-carb diet is not enough to reduce high levels of triglycerides, a doctor can prescribe a complementary medication. Cholesterol medications are usually used to treat triglycerides. If a patient has high cholesterol along with high triglycerides, statins usually will be prescribed. If a patient does not have high cholesterol, fibrates and niacin will be prescribed. Take medications as directed.