Cholesterol, a waxy substance found throughout the body, has many important functions. According to Children's Hospital Boston, it is required for the production of certain hormones, vitamin D and is necessary for cell membrane construction. Triglycerides are extra calories from meals that are stored as fats to be used later for energy. When too much cholesterol or triglycerides are circulating in the bloodstream, it can lead to an increased risk for heart attack, congestive heart failure and stroke.
HDL vs. LDL Cholesterol
Molecules of cholesterol need to bind to proteins to be transported through the bloodstream. According to Health.com, there are two types of lipoproteins that carry cholesterol. High-density lipoprotein (HDL), the good cholesterol, has a larger protein molecule and a smaller cholesterol molecule and helps scrub plaque off artery walls. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL), the bad cholesterol, has a smaller protein molecule and a larger cholesterol molecule, and causes cholesterol to stick to the artery walls.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are found in food as well as circulating in the bloodstream, according to the American Heart Association. During digestion, the body converts any extra calories into triglycerides which are stored in fat cells. When the body needs extra energy, a hormone signals the release of triglycerides from fat cells. Consuming too many carbohydrates, especially those containing white flour or white sugar, and fats can lead to elevated triglyceride levels.
HDL-Triglyceride Ratio
Cholesterol and triglyceride levels are measured in milligrams per deciliter, or mg/dL. When cholesterol levels are under 200 mg/dL, most experts agree the risk of heart attack is reduced. According to Dr. Ron Grisanti, author of the Your Medical Detective website, having a low HDL cholesterol level along with high triglycerides can still be a risk for heart attack. The normal level for HDL is below 40 mg/dL, and for triglycerides, below 150 mg/dL. The ratio of triglycerides to HDL is found by dividing the triglyceride level by the HDL level. A ratio of less than 2 is considered desirable.
Risks
Those with low HDL along with high triglycerides are 10 times more likely to develop coronary heart disease. According to MayoClinic.com, other things can increase the risk for developing heart problems. Smoking cigarettes is considered dangerous because it damages the artery walls. Being overweight, inactive and eating a diet high in fats and carbohydrates can also increase risk. Other risk factors include diabetes, high blood pressure and a history of heart disease in the family.
Healthy Diet and Prevention
The higher the HDL levels and the lower the triglycerides, the better it is for the heart. One of the best ways to control HDL and triglyceride levels is through eating a heart-healthy diet. MayoClinic.com recommends eating more healthy fats found in olive oil and walnuts and avoiding sugary foods, trans fats and saturated fats found in beef, pork and commercial snack foods. Along with reducing the amount of cholesterol from foods such as egg yolks and whole milk, it is best to add whole grains and foods high in omega-3 fatty acids, such as salmon, along with fruits and vegetables to the diet. Alcohol should be consumed in moderation.
