You have your cholesterol levels under control, but now your doctor says you still have high triglycerides. Triglycerides, like cholesterol, are a blood fat. Research suggests that high levels increase risk for diabetes, heart disease and stroke. Severely high levels put you at risk for pancreatitis, a life-threatening inflammation of the pancreas.
For most people, lifestyle and diet changes can significantly lower triglyceride levels. The September issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter offers these tips to reduce triglycerides:
* Cut back on sugary foods, such as cookies and pop. In some people, this leads to a large decrease in triglyceride levels.
* Cut back on alcohol.
* Lose excess weight.
* Increase exercise to at least 30 minutes a day nearly every day.
* Eat fish high in omega-3 fatty acids such as mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna and salmon.
* Consider medications if diet and lifestyle changes don't help. Ask your doctor about your options.
This article is from the September issue of Mayo Clinic Health Letter. You may cite this publication as often as you wish. Also, you may reprint up to four articles annually without cost. More frequent reprinting is allowed for a fee. Mayo Clinic Health Letter attribution is required. Include the following subscription information as your editorial policies permit: Call toll-free for subscription information, 800-333-9037, extension 9PR1.
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