Triglycerides are a type of fat that plays an important role in maintaining good health.

While triglycerides can be found in foods that we eat, the bulk of triglycerides in the body are derived from excess calories consumed, which are stored in fat cells to be used later on as energy.

However, when a person eats more calories than their body can use, the triglycerides level builds up to dangerous levels, which can increase the risk of developing heart disease and other health problems.

Why are High Triglyceride Levels Bad for Heart Health?

Triglycerides are a type of fat that circulates in the blood. When a person has high levels of triglycerides in their blood, it becomes thick and sticky, which can cause blood clots that block blood flow to vital organs like the heart and brain.

Furthermore, high triglyceride levels are also an indication of an underlying condition called metabolic syndrome.

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of health problems that include high blood pressure, high cholesterol, high triglycerides, and insulin resistance. All these conditions combined increase the risk of developing heart disease and other chronic health problems.

Symptoms of High Triglycerides Level

There are usually no visible symptoms of high triglycerides in the body. A blood test is the only way to detect high triglyceride levels.

However, people with high triglycerides levels may have fatty deposits under their skin, particularly around the abdomen, which could be a sign of metabolic syndrome. Additionally, other health problems that are closely related to high triglycerides, such as obesity, prediabetes, and type 2 diabetes, may show signs of fatigue, frequent urination, and increased thirst.

Risk Factors for High Triglycerides

Several factors can increase the risk of developing high triglyceride levels, some of which include:.

Obesity and excess weight gain
Sedentary lifestyle with very little physical activity
Poor diet high in sugar, carbohydrate, and refined grains
Family history of high cholesterol or LDL cholesterol
Medical conditions like hypothyroidism, kidney disease, or liver disease
Tobacco use and excessive alcohol consumption

How to Lower Triglyceride Levels

Lowering triglycerides can be accomplished through lifestyle changes, medication, or a combination of both. Some effective ways to lower triglyceride levels include:.

Lose weight. Losing just 10% of body weight can make a huge difference in lowering triglyceride levels.
Choose healthier fats. Unsaturated fats found in fish, nuts, and avocado are healthy fats that can help to lower triglyceride levels.
Eat less carbohydrate. Opt for a diet that is low in carbohydrates, especially refined grains and sugar.
Exercise regularly. Exercise is an excellent way to improve heart health overall and lower triglyceride levels.
Stop smoking and drinking alcohol excessively. Both habits have been shown to increase triglyceride levels.
Take medication. In some cases, medications like statins can effectively lower triglyceride levels.

Conclusion

Triglycerides play an essential role in maintaining good health, but too much of a good thing can be harmful. High levels of triglycerides in the body increase the risk of developing heart disease and other health problems.

However, making lifestyle changes like regular exercise and healthy eating can go a long way in keeping triglyceride levels in check.