High levels of triglycerides in the blood have been associated with a number of health problems such as heart disease, stroke, and obesity. The good news is that there are several ways you can lower your triglycerides naturally.
Here are some tips you can follow:.
1. Reduce your intake of sugar and refined carbohydrates
Eating too much sugar and refined carbohydrates can increase the levels of triglycerides in your blood. This is because when you consume these foods, your body breaks them down into glucose, which in turn increases insulin production.
Insulin increases the production of triglycerides in your liver. To lower your triglycerides, avoid sugary drinks, candies, and foods made from white flour.
2. Increase your fiber intake
Fiber has been shown to lower triglyceride levels by reducing the absorption of sugar into the bloodstream. Eating fiber-rich foods such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes can help lower your triglycerides.
3. Consume healthy fats
Consuming healthy fats such as those found in fish, avocado, nuts, and olive oil can help lower triglyceride levels. Omega-3 fatty acids found in fatty fish such as salmon, sardines, and mackerel can also help lower triglycerides.
4. Lose weight
Losing weight can help lower your triglyceride levels. This is because excess weight can lead to insulin resistance, which can lead to higher triglyceride levels.
Losing as little as 5% to 10% of your body weight can significantly lower your triglycerides.
5. Exercise
Exercise can help lower your triglycerides by burning off excess calories and improving insulin sensitivity. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week. This can include brisk walking, cycling, or swimming.
6. Limit alcohol consumption
Drinking too much alcohol can lead to higher triglyceride levels. Alcohol is high in sugar and calories, which can contribute to weight gain and increased triglycerides.
If you choose to drink, limit your consumption to one drink per day for women and two drinks per day for men.
7. Quit smoking
Smoking has been linked to higher levels of triglycerides. If you smoke, quitting can help lower your triglyceride levels and improve your overall health.
8. Manage stress
Stress can contribute to higher levels of triglycerides. Find ways to manage your stress such as exercise, meditation, or deep breathing exercises.
9. Get enough sleep
Lack of sleep has been linked to higher levels of triglycerides. Aim for at least 7 to 8 hours of sleep per night to help lower your triglycerides.
10. Speak to your doctor
If you have high levels of triglycerides, speak to your doctor about treatment options. Your doctor may recommend medications such as fibrates or omega-3 supplements to help lower your triglycerides.