When you received your lab results from the annual health assessment, they included a value for something called “triglycerides.” Unfortunately, many people don’t know what triglycerides are, or what to do if they are higher than they should be. Today’s blog entry aims to clear up the mystery around triglycerides, so that you can achieve or maintain a healthy level.
WHAT ARE TRIGLYCERIDES?
Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood that is used for energy. When present in excess, they are stored for later use.
WHAT SHOULD MY TRIGLYCERIDE VALUE BE?
Normal values are below 150. A value of 150-199 is considered borderline high. If your triglycerides were very high, we may have been unable to give you an accurate result for your LDL (bad cholesterol).
WHY MIGHT MY TRIGLYCERIDES BE HIGH?
- Excess alcohol consumption
- Tobacco use
- Obesity (Calculate your BMI here.)
- Frequently consuming too many calories (more than your body uses)
- Kidney disease
- Some medications (steroids, estrogen, birth control, beta blockers, diuretics)
WHAT ARE THE RISKS OF HAVING HIGH TRIGLYCERIDES?
High triglycerides raise your risk of heart disease. They could also be a sign of metabolic syndrome, if combined with high blood pressure, high blood sugar (glucose), low HDLs (good cholesterol) and a high waist circumference. Metabolic syndrome increases your risk of heart disease, diabetes and stroke.
WHAT CAN I DO TO LOWER THEM?
- Quit or reduce the use of alcohol consumption (this can have a big impact on triglycerides)
- Be mindful of fat and sugar intake (Click here for food swap ideas!)
- Eat only when hungry and stop eating when content (before becoming full)
- Increase physical activity
- Join a weight loss program if you are overweight/obese
- Eat more fruits and vegetables (high in niacin)
SHOULD I SPEAK WITH MY FAMILY DOCTOR?
Absolutely! If any of your lab values are abnormal, be sure your family doctor is aware of it. He/she may suggest you try lowering your triglycerides with lifestyle changes before going on medication. If your triglycerides are very high, your doctor may recommend starting medication right away, along with lifestyle change. If you are on medications that increase the risk of high triglycerides, your doctor may want to adjust your other medications to control your triglycerides. In a few cases, high triglycerides run in families and medication may be necessary for long term management.
WHERE CAN I GET HELP WITH LIFESTYLE CHANGES TO LOWER MY TRIGLYCERIDES?
Contact the HealthNEXT coaching team at shaaz@corporatehealthsolutions.com or 443-801-0539. We would be happy to assist you in beginning this process.
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