Triglycerides are a form of fat. According to MayoClinic.com, the main cause of high triglycerides is the high consumption of simple carbohydrates and fats. Especially when coupled with high cholesterol, high triglycerides can result in a number of health issues, including heart disease. Lowering your triglycerides will require a number of ongoing lifestyle changes.
Step 1
Increase your consumption of omega-3 fatty acids. According to the American Heart Association, omega-3 fatty acids can help lower triglycerides as well as slow down the formation of plaque in the arteries. Fatty fish such as herring, tuna and salmon are rich in omega-3s. If you don't eat fish, talk to your doctor about taking omega-3 supplements.
Step 2
Lower your intake of sugars and simple carbohydrates. According to MayoClinic.com, products made with white flour or those high in sugar can increase triglycerides. Instead, choose whole grains, sugar-free cereals and natural products for desserts and snacks.
Step 3
Reduce your overall calorie intake. Calories you don't burn in everyday activities are converted into fat and stored in the body, increasing your overall triglycerides count. Even cutting a few hundred calories a day can help. Give up soda and reduce your alcohol intake, switch to low-fat dairy and drink black coffee instead of choosing gourmet coffee drinks that have added syrups and creams.
Step 4
Exercise for at least 30 minutes on most days of the week. According to MayoClinic.com, exercise will not only lower your triglycerides, but it will also boost high-density lipoprotein, or HDL, also known as your good cholesterol. HDL cholesterol can in turn help you fight high low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, also referred to as bad cholesterol. Any type of physical activity will do, whether that's joining a sports league, participating in step aerobics classes or taking daily walks.
