What Are the Dangers of High Triglyceride Levels?
Blood serum cholesterol, HDL, LDL and triglyceride levels are the main markers of coronary heart health. Lifestyle habits which keep these figures within acceptable ranges can minimize the risk of coronary heart disease. Elevated levels of triglycerides, a type of fat, can result in increased risk for metabolic syndrome, atherosclerosis, stroke, pancreatitis and heart disease. A combination of diet, exercise, weight-control, and avoidance of excess alcohol and tobacco can help lower triglyceride levels.
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Function
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Put simply, triglycerides are a type of fat. After eating, if the body is in positive energy balance -- that is, if the calories consumed exceed current requirements -- the surplus is converted into triglycerides and stored within fat cells in one's body. This is why there exists a link between high triglyceride levels and obesity.
Far from being entirely undesirable, standard triglyceride levels are needed for normal health. The American Heart Association lists the normal range for triglyceride levels as anything under 150mg/dL, with 500mg/dL being the threshold for "very high."
Risk Factors
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A number of factors can increase one's risk for high triglyceride levels. These include kidney disease, uncontrolled diabetes, obesity, hypothyroidism and excess consumption of alcohol. Some medications can also contribute to raising one's triglyceride levels: diuretics, tamoxifen, birth control pills, estrogen, beta-blockers and steroids. There is also a genetic link, but most factors for keeping triglyceride levels down are within individual control.
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Potential Dangers
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One possible complication stemming from high triglyceride levels is metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is an amalgamation of risk factors which, when present in an individual, signals a significantly greater risk of diabetes, heart disease and stroke.
Another possible result of high triglyceride levels is atherosclerosis. Put simply, this is the thickening of the arterial wall due to accumulation of fatty deposits. This results in the hardening of the artery, which can lead to oxygen deprivation to the affected tissue or even an aneurysm.
Controlling Risk
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Fortunately, most of the risk factors for high triglycerides can be controlled through individual action. That means that the only thing standing between you and a substantially lower risk of coronary disease is you. A regular diet and exercise regime is paramount to leading a heart-healthy lifestyle. Authorities recommend limiting total caloric intake, along with limiting the percentage of total calories from carbohydrates to less than 60 percent. Additionally, supplements with omega-3 fatty acids have been shown to positively affect triglyceride levels.
Conclusion
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Heart disease is no laughing matter. According to the most recent statistics from the American Heart Association, 80 million people were affected by cardiovascular disease during 2006, resulting in stroke, high blood pressure and heart failure. You need not become a statistic. All the tools necessary to lead a heart-healthy life are within your control. Through diet, exercise, avoidance of poor lifestyle choices and cultivation of positive habits, you can do your part to avoid becoming yet another victim of coronary heart disease.
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