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There are mainly two different types of fat in our blood, namely cholesterol and triglycerides. Triglycerides are used by the body as an energy source, while cholesterol is needed to build cells and form different types of hormones. We get some cholesterol through our diet, but it is mainly formed by the body itself. If we get too much of these fats in the blood, these can be stored in the liver or end up in the walls of the blood vessels, which can increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Keeping an eye on your triglyceride levels is crucial because they are a significant indicator of your metabolic health and cardiovascular risk. High levels can signal metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that raises your risk for heart disease, diabetes, and stroke. Testing helps manage these levels through lifestyle changes or medication, ensuring they don’t escalate to a problematic threshold.
Diet is a major factor, with excessive calories from sugars and fats typically leading to high triglycerides. Alcohol also significantly increases triglyceride levels. Other influences include genetic factors, thyroid health, diabetes, liver and kidney diseases, and certain medications that can elevate or lower triglyceride levels.
Reducing high triglyceride levels involves cutting back on calories, especially from sugar and refined carbs. Increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon and sardines, can also help. Regular physical activity is crucial, as it helps burn triglycerides for energy. If your levels are low, ensuring a balanced diet that includes a healthy amount of fats is important.
Reducing high triglyceride levels involves cutting back on calories, especially from sugar and refined carbs. Increasing your intake of omega-3 fatty acids, found in fish like salmon and sardines, can also help. Regular physical activity is crucial, as it helps burn triglycerides for energy. If your levels are low, ensuring a balanced diet that includes a healthy amount of fats is important.
