Contents
What are Triglycerides?
Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood, and they play an important role in your health. When you eat foods that contain fat, your body converts the fat into triglycerides, which are then stored in your fat cells. Triglycerides are released when needed for energy or for other bodily functions.
What Are Healthy Triglyceride Levels?
Having healthy triglyceride levels is important for optimal health and wellness. Triglycerides are categorized as “normal,” “borderline high,” or “high.” A normal triglyceride level is less than 150 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), a borderline high triglyceride level is between 150 and 199 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), and a high triglyceride level is greater than 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).
What Can Affect Your Triglyceride Levels?
There are a number of factors that can affect your triglyceride levels. Your diet, physical activity level, and weight can all affect your triglycerides. If you eat a lot of foods that are high in sugar and processed carbs, your triglyceride levels may be higher than normal. Smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and obesity can also contribute to increased triglyceride levels.
What Does It Mean if You Have High Triglyceride Levels?
If you have a high triglyceride level, it means that there is too much fat in your bloodstream. Having elevated triglyceride levels can increase your risk of heart disease and stroke. It is important to take steps to lower your triglyceride levels, such as making lifestyle changes, such as eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and quitting smoking. It is also important to talk to your doctor about medications that may be beneficial in helping you lower your triglyceride levels.
Conclusion
Triglycerides are an important and often overlooked measure of health. It’s important to understand your triglyceride levels so that you can take steps to keep them in the healthy range. If your triglyceride levels are elevated, your doctor can help you identify lifestyle changes and medications that may help you lower them and reduce your risk of heart disease and stroke.
