This blog is about triglycerides (as you can see by the heading). I’ve already discussed cholesterol and I felt explaining triglycerides is vital as well.
In this blog, we will learn about triglycerides, what are they, what high levels do, and how to control that.
And just for my ease, I will call triglycerides “Tg” in the rest of this blog.
What are Triglycerides?
Triglycerides or Tg are types of fat that are found in the body. Both Tg and Mr. C (Cholesterol) belong to the lipid family that circulates in our blood. And, both are made in the liver.
Our body naturally contains triglycerides, but Tg also comes from food, especially from fats.
Energy is measured in calories, and when we eat extra calories these are stored as fat cells called triglycerides. These extra calories are used later when we need energy. But, when we don’t spend/use that energy it becomes body fat and this will lead to high levels of Tg and Mr. C.
Other than this, high Tg can also happen due to certain drugs/treatments, genetics, alcohol, smoking, Type-2 diabetes, thyroid disorder, etc.
What will high Triglycerides do?
High Tg may lead to the hardening of arteries. This will obstruct the flow of oxygen-rich blood throughout the body.
High Tg can also lead to:
- Heart disease
- Brain stroke
- Kidney disease
- Liver disease
- High level of LDL
What are desired levels of Triglycerides?
Anything below 150 mg/dL is a good number
150-199 mg/dL is the borderline
200-499 mg/dL is considered High
Above 500 mg/dL is dangerous
Ways to control high Triglycerides
Controlling Tg is very simple.
First, you need to be active. By active, I mean you need some kind of physical activity in your life. Anything like regular 30 mins of walking, playing your favorite sports, gardening, dancing, weight training, yoga, cardio/HIIT (my favorite btw), cycling, etc. is considered good. Make sure you invest time daily to it.
A Healthy diet also has a lot to do with Tg levels. You need to include healthy fats in your diet and limit Simple carbs and Trans fats.
Limit or completely avoid smoking and alcohol.
Get sufficient sleep and limit stress.
Medication also helps, but I won’t be suggesting anything.
After reading this blog as I always suggest I want you to consult a doctor and get your Lipid profile tested. Such tests are done on an empty stomach. If you see anything peculiar, talk to your doctor for more info.
But, before that drop a like and comment on this blog
and with that remember to smile.
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