Triglycerides and cholesterol are types of lipids found in the blood. Too many lipids in the blood is known as a lipid disorder. This can indicate an unhealthy lifestyle, which significantly increases the risk of heart disease. If you feel that you may be at risk, then you should consult your doctor immediately and change your overall lifestyle.
Cholesterol
Cholesterol is used as a structural component in cell membranes and a precursor molecule to hormones. It is transported through the blood by lipoproteins, which are combinations of lipids and proteins. Low density lipoproteins, or LDL, are considered the bad kind of cholesterol, because high levels can cause the deposition of plaque in the arterial walls. High density lipoproteins, or HDL, carry cholesterol to the liver to be excreted. High LDL and low LDL are considered to be a risk factor for heart disease.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are made up of three fatty acids connected by a glycerol backbone. Any extra calories in the body are converted to triglycerides and then stored in fat cells. They are also transported by lipoproteins in the blood. Triglycerides may contribute to the hardening of arteries and are associated with other factors such as high cholesterol levels that are risks for heart disease.
Levels
The Mayo Clinic states that total cholesterol levels below 200 mg/dL -- milligrams per deciliter, are most desirable. More specifically, you should shoot for LDL levels below 130 mg/dL -- below 100 mg/dL if you are at risk for heart disease -- and HDL levels above 60 mg/dL. Triglyceride levels below 150 mg/dL are considered to be normal. Levels above 200 mg/dL are high and anything above 500 mg/dL is very high.
Causes
According to Medline Plus, there are many things that can cause abnormal lipid levels, including obesity, excessive alcohol use, diets high in saturated fat and trans fat, certain medication such as beta blockers and antidepressants, diseases such as diabetes and Cushing's syndrome, lack of exercise, a sedentary lifestyle and smoking, which actually reduces HDL cholesterol. A number of genetic disorders, such as familial combined hyperlipidemia, may also be the cause.
Warning
Because lipid disorders routinely deposit material within the walls of the arteries, thus blocking the flow of blood, they are common causes of stroke, high blood pressure and many other kinds of cardiovascular diseases. The National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute states that each year more than a million Americans have heart attacks and about half a million people die from heart disease. It is the most serious health concern in America today. If you are at risk, then you may need to lose weight, change your diet, start exercising, take medication, quit smoking or get regular screenings.
