Triglycerides are lipids that are considered essential for the functioning of the human body. These lipids help the body convert calories into fuel for energy. However, elevated levels of triglycerides--more than 200mg per deciliter of blood--increase the risk of heart disease, according to MayoClinic.com. Some nutritionists believe that avoiding certain foods may help reduce triglyceride levels in the bloodstream and lower the risk for coronary disease.
Sweet Foods
Sweet foods can cause rapid triglyceride spikes, according to the University of Massachusetts website. These include cookies, cakes, pies, donuts and candy. Sweet beverages such as soft drinks and concentrated fruit juices can also rapidly elevate triglyceride levels.
High-Cholesterol Foods
According to MayoClinic.com, foods containing high levels of cholesterol may elevate triglycerides in your bloodstream. These include foods high in saturated fats, such as beef, pork, eggs, whole milk and cheese.
Alcohol
Alcoholic beverages, like sugars, can quickly elevate triglyceride levels, according to the University of Massachusetts website. Some people who have sensitivities to alcohol may experience triglyceride spikes with even one alcoholic beverage. The type of alcoholic beverage is not important--beer, liquor and all other types of alcohol can increase the risk for heart disease.
Trans Fats
Trans fats occur naturally in small amounts in meats and dairy products. However, most of the trans fats consumed by Americans are in the form of hydrogenated oils used for pan frying and deep frying. Packaged cookies, frosted cakes and crackers also typically contain trans fats. Like saturated fats, trans fats can raise tryglicerides, according to MayoClinic.com.
Refined Grains
White bread, pasta and white rice are loaded with simple carbohydrates that the body converts into sugars. These sugars can cause triglyceride spikes. Avoid products that contain refined grains, opting instead for whole grain breads and brown rice, advises the University of Massachusetts website.
