Cholesterol is the waxy substance often found in fats and lipids in the blood, according to the American Heart Association. Triglycerides are a chemical form of fats found in the blood. The American Heart Association says that they are often found in the form of plasma lipids. High levels of cholesterol are usually accompanied by high levels of triglycerides.
Cholesterol levels
MayoClinic.com recommends that you keep your total cholesterol levels under 200 mg/dL. Anything above 200 mg/dL could cause health complications such as heart disease or a heart attack. Low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol levels should be 129 mg/dL or lower. High-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol levels should be above 60 mg/dL.
Diet to Lower Cholesterol
To lower cholesterol, MayoClinic.com recommends eating healthier foods that are low in saturated and trans fats. No more than 10 percent of your daily diet should come from saturated fats. Eat no more than 300 mg of cholesterol per day. Dairy products and red meats are naturally high in cholesterol. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables that are high in dietary fiber to flush the toxins and cholesterol out of your body. Eat whole grains to promote good heart health.
Levels of Triglycerides
Excess levels of triglycerides in the blood plasma is known as hypertriglyceridemia, according to the American Heart Association. High levels of triglycerides have been linked to cases of coronary heart disease. Triglyceride levels should be under 150 mg/dL for optimal health. Borderline high triglyceride levels range from 150 to 199 mg/dL, and anything above 200 mg/dL is considered a high level of triglycerides.
Diet to Lower Triglycerides
The American Heart Association recommends that you eat less saturated fats and trans fats to lower trigllycerides. The American Heart Association states that only a small amount of alcohol can lead to large changes of triglyceride levels in the blood, and recommends reducing the amount of alcohol you drink if you drink alcohol. Eat more omega-3 fatty acids commonly found in fish oils and seafood products. Avoid proteins that are in fat, such as red meats.
Considerations
The American Heart Association recommends that you exercise 30 minutes a day almost every day to help lower cholesterol and triglyceride levels. Visit your doctor periodically to check your cholesterol and triglyceride levels to see if you are within a healthy range or not. Ask your doctor for advice on certain meal plans you can follow to help lower your cholesterol or triglyceride level. The American Heart Association also advises against smoking as it can tighten your blood vessels and cause higher levels of cholesterol.
