Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) found in your blood. They are the most common type of fat in your body and serve as a source of energy. When you consume more calories than your body needs, especially from sugary foods and carbohydrates, the excess is converted into triglycerides and stored in fat cells for later use. However, having high triglyceride levels in the blood can be a health concern. Take a look at this article to learn what causes high triglycerides and how it can be managed on time.
Triglyceride levels are measured in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) of blood. Here are the general guidelines:
• Normal: Less than 150 mg/dL
• Borderline high: 150–199 mg/dL
• High: 200–499 mg/dL
• Very high: 500 mg/dL or higher
High triglycerides often don’t cause obvious symptoms, but over time, they can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and other health complications. When you have high triglyceride levels, the doctor will diagnose you with a condition known as hypertriglyceridemia.
The symptoms of high triglyceride levels are not visible in most cases. Many people know they have high triglyceride only when they take a blood test. However, the symptoms of very high triglycerides (mostly visible only in severe to very severe hypertriglyceridemia) may include one or more of the following:
• Swelling of the pancreas leading to acute pancreatitis
• Visible difference in the appearance of your eye’s blood vessels (known as lipemia retinalis)
• Dermatological issues like damage to the skin on your arms, legs, back, and more
• Extremely high triglyceride levels can lead to temporary memory loss, swelling, redness or inflammation in the liver, spleen, stomach, and more – all of these happen when the body loses its ability to break down fats (a condition known as multifactorial chylomicronaemia syndrome)
The following factors can contribute to high triglyceride levels:
• Eating fat-rich and sugar-rich foods regularly
• Excessive smoking and drinking
• An existing genetic condition that hampers the body’s ability to break down fats
• Existing issues with the liver and kidneys
• Irregular thyroid regulation levels
• Unregulated blood sugar levels
• Having a body mass index of 25, indicating inefficient weight management
• Medicines for correcting hormones or medications that are beta-blockers or corticosteroids
• Medicines that treat certain cancers or sexually transmitted diseases
• Sedentary lifestyle (not being physically active)
When triglyceride levels are consistently high, it can lead to:
High triglycerides can contribute to the buildup of fatty deposits in the arteries, leading to narrowing and hardening of the arteries, increasing the risk of heart disease, stroke, and peripheral artery disease.
Extremely high triglyceride levels (500 mg/dL or higher) can lead to inflammation of the pancreas, a condition known as pancreatitis, which can be life-threatening.
High triglycerides are often a component of metabolic syndrome, which increases the risk of type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and stroke.
High triglyceride levels can contribute to the development of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD), which can eventually lead to liver damage.
A simple blood test, typically as part of a lipid panel, can measure your triglyceride levels. This test is usually done after fasting for 8-12 hours for the most accurate results. It is recommended to repeat the lipid test once every year if you are above 45 years old.
In cases of moderate hypertriglyceridemia, you can lower your triglyceride levels with diet and exercise.
This includes eating lots of fresh fruits and vegetables, fibre-rich foods, and a balanced diet every day to manage weight and nutrient intake.
Moderate triglyceride levels can be treated with about an hour’s physical exercise daily. This can include walking, simple aerobic exercises, and any other activity you are comfortable with.
Doctors advise medications for people with moderate to high triglyceride levels. These medications include:
• Fibrates
• Fish oil supplements
• Nicotinic acid medications
• Statins
• Medications containing bempedoic acid
When you have moderate to high triglyceride levels, you will not see any visible symptoms. You will experience symptoms like swelling of the pancreas, abdominal pain, cardiac issues, and the like only when your triglyceride levels are very high.
You should stay away from alcohol, sugary foods and beverages, full-cream dairy products, packaged foods, and foods rich in carbohydrates when your triglyceride levels are high.
High triglyceride levels can increase your risk of cardiac issues and the non-functioning of several vital organs. Hence, you should lead a healthy lifestyle and be mindful about what you eat. Ensure you test yourself once a year to spot any issues on time to avail of timely medical attention.
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Source: webmd.com, medicalnewstoday.com, nhlbi.nih.gov
Disclaimer: This blog provides general information and discussions about health and related subjects. The information and other content provided in this blog, website or in any linked materials are not intended and should not be considered, or used as a substitute for, medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Kindly contact your Doctor before starting a new medicine or health regime.
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