Triglycerides are essentially a type of fat that accumulates in the bloodstream. These triglycerides are involved in transporting fats to different places. They are the fats that are formed due to consumption of fatty food and a high calorie intake. The fat tissue in the body is mainly composed of triglycerides. High levels of triglycerides can increase the risk of developing heart diseases. This is especially true for women and those with type 2 diabetes.
Triglycerides levels are determined by the food that is consumed by the individual. Cholesterol is a substance that is present in the bloodstream and cells of the body. It plays an important role in the body by helping in body functions such as producing certain hormones. A high level of cholesterol in the blood stream is a condition called hypercholesterolemia, which increases the risk of developing coronary heart disease and stroke. A high triglyceride level often comes along with a high cholesterol level, a reduced HDL (high density lipoprotein) and a high LDL (low density lipoprotein). Lowering the cholesterol also reduces the triglyceride level in the body.
Regulating the diet is very effective in lowering the triglyceride levels. Grains and sugars must be avoided, as they require insulin in order to be processed by the body. This stimulates the production of triglycerides by the liver. Elevated triglyceride levels are commonly present in obese individuals. However, other individuals may also have accumulated fat in the arteries. The triglycerides that are present in the blood are produced by the liver from sugar that has not been utilized by the body. Grains are closely associated with high triglyceride levels, as they are very easily metabolized into simple sugars. Therefore, strictly restricting the consumption of grains will have a beneficial effect in bringing down the triglyceride levels. Green leafy vegetables work as a good substitute for grains and sugars.
Sometimes, certain medications may work to aggravate the problem of high cholesterol and high triglyceride levels, and as such stopping or changing the medication is helpful. A low fat diet will ensure that your cholesterol levels remain low. Striving to attain your ideal body weight is of the utmost importance. If you are obese, you need to start losing weight by exercising. If you cannot maintain a proper exercise regime, you can try simple methods such as walking up and down a flight of stairs, and then slowly progress to a more structured exercise routine. Discontinue any alcohol consumption. If you have diabetes, following the right treatment for that is also important.