When it comes to heart health-related issues, cholesterol has always been considered a major factor. However, another important factor is triglycerides, a type of fat found in the blood.
When you eat, your body takes any extra calories and turns them into triglycerides, which are stored in your fat cells. Later, hormones release triglycerides for energy between meals. If you regularly eat more calories than you burn, especially from high-carbohydrate foods, you may have high triglycerides (hypertriglyceridemia). For any heart-related issues, consult the Best Cardiologists at BM Birla Hospital, Kolkata.
But what exactly is it, and how does it affect your heart health? Let’s discuss this below in a simple way.
Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) found in your blood. Whenever you eat, your body converts excess calories—especially from sugars and carbohydrates—into triglycerides, which are stored in your fat cells. Later, these fats are used for energy.
Between meals, hormones release these stored triglycerides to provide energy. While some triglycerides are essential for normal bodily functions, too much can pose serious health risks.
Key facts about triglycerides:
Triglycerides may not receive as much attention as cholesterol, but they play a significant role in heart health. High triglyceride levels can contribute to the hardening of arteries (atherosclerosis), increasing the risk of stroke, heart attack, and other cardiovascular diseases.
Maintaining healthy triglyceride levels reduces your risk of heart disease and improves overall health.
A simple blood test called a lipid panel can measure your triglyceride levels. Here’s a breakdown of what your results might indicate:
If your triglyceride levels fall in the high or very high range, it’s time to take action. Even borderline high levels should not be ignored, as they can worsen over time and lead to serious health issues.
The good news is that lifestyle changes can significantly lower triglyceride levels and improve heart health. Here are some simple and effective ways to do it:
Adopt a Heart-Healthy Diet
Exercise Regularly
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Limit Alcohol Consumption
Choose Healthy Proteins
Manage Stress and Sleep Well
Consider Omega-3 Fatty Acids
If you're experiencing high triglycerides or related health concerns, it's best to consult a doctor to discuss the right steps for your health.
Triglycerides are an important but often overlooked factor in heart health. Keeping them in check can go a long way in protecting your heart and overall well-being.
The best way to manage triglycerides is through a healthy lifestyle—eating better, staying active, managing stress, and maintaining a healthy weight. Small changes can lead to big results over time.
High triglycerides can be caused by factors like poor diet, lack of exercise, obesity, alcohol consumption, and certain medical conditions like diabetes.
Foods high in sugar, refined carbs, and unhealthy fats, such as baked goods, fried foods, and sugary drinks, can raise triglyceride levels.
If triglycerides stay high for a long time, they can increase your risk of heart disease, stroke, and pancreatitis.
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