Introduction
Triglycerides are a type of fat in your body that is commonly used to create energy. However, when high triglyceride levels get combined with high cholesterol levels, your health can be severely affected. According to the American Heart Association, high triglyceride levels (like high cholesterol levels) can contribute to your risks of developing coronary artery disease. Although lowering your cholesterol levels does not automatically lower your triglyceride levels, the lifestyle changes you make to lower your cholesterol levels can also dramatically decrease your triglycerides.
Exercise
According to the Mayo Clinic, exercising at least 30 minutes a day can not only raise your good cholesterol levels and lower your bad cholesterol levels, it can also lower your triglyceride levels. Exercise does not have to mean running five miles. Even going for a walk can help lower your triglyceride levels. Develop your exercise routine around your fitness level, and the activities that you like to do to keep your exercise enjoyable.
Alcohol Consumption
According to the American Heart Association, another way to lower your triglyceride levels is to stop or limit your alcohol consumption. Triglyceride levels are substantially affected by beverages (like alcohol) that are high in levels of both calories and sugar. Drinking alcohol, especially binge drinking can quickly raise your plasma triglyceride levels.
Unhealthy Carbohydrates
Simple carbohydrates, such as those found in sugar laden or highly refined foods (such as white flour) can also affect your triglyceride levels. Reducing your intake of these foods can cause spikes in your insulin levels, which in turn can cause spikes in your triglyceride levels.
Proteins
Your sources for protein can also affect your triglyceride levels. Proteins such as red meats that are high in saturated fats can have a damaging affect on your triglyceride levels. Opting for protein sources with healthy fats such as fish, that not only are low in saturated fats but also high in omega-3 can help keep your triglycerides at a manageable level.
Medications
The same medications that are used to control cholesterol levels may also help lower your triglycerides. According to the Mayo Clinic, medications such as statins, fibrates and nicotinic acid may help to lower your triglyceride levels.
