The Significance of High Triglycerides

While many people are familiar with the dangers of high cholesterol levels, some are not aware of the dangers of another substance found in the bloodstream called triglycerides. But according to the Mayo Clinic, the dangers of having high triglycerides nearly rival those of high cholesterol.

Identification

• Triglycerides are a type of fat produced naturally by your body and used as a source for energy. When triglycerides build up in excessive amounts, they pose a risk to your health.

Risks

• High triglycerides are a factor in artherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries, a condition that increases your chance of heart attack or stroke.

Causes

• Common causes of high triglycerides include obesity, diets that are high in fat and lack of exercise. Other factors that contribute to high triglyceride levels are type 2 diabetes, hypothyroidism and kidney or liver disease.

Levels

• A normal triglyceride level is anything below 150 mg of the fats per deciliter of blood. Your triglycerides are considered high when they reach 200 mg/dL or more, according to Mayo Clinic.

Solution

• Losing weight and making dietary changes like fewer calories and cholesterol as well as less alcohol and sugar foods make a big impact on triglyceride levels. In some cases, doctors also prescribe prescription medications for cholesterol like gemfibrozil or fenofibrate, which also lower triglyceride levels.