Cholesterol and triglycerides are lipids, or fats, normally found circulating in the bloodstream that are needed or produced by the body. Elevated levels of either are called lipid disorders. According to Medline Plus, having a lipid disorder can lead to hardening of the arteries and coronary artery disease. Keeping cholesterol and triglyceride levels low to reduce risk of developing coronary artery disease can be accomplished through proper diet, along with medication, if necessary.
Cholesterol Levels
Cholesterol is needed by the body to manufacture hormones and vitamin D. According to the American Heart Association, most cholesterol is produced by the liver and some is obtained through the breakdown of foods. There are two types of cholesterol. High-density lipoprotein, or HDL, is termed the good cholesterol. It appears to protect the heart from heart attack when its levels in the blood are 40 mg/dL or higher. Low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, is termed the bad cholesterol because when elevated, it causes deposits of plaque to form on the artery walls, narrowing them.
Triglyceride Levels
Triglycerides are another way the body handles and stores lipids in the body. During digestion, carbohydrates and excess calories are converted to triglycerides and stored in fat cells. Triglycerides are released from fat cells in response to stimulus from certain hormones to provide the body with energy between meals. According to the American Heart Association, elevated triglycerides can increase the risk of coronary artery disease. Normal triglyceride levels are under 150 mg/dL.
Risk Factors
According to the National Heart Lung and Blood Institute, coronary artery disease is the most common cause of death in American women and men. Plaque, composed of fats and cholesterol, forms inside the artery walls, reducing blood flow to the heart, which can result in chest pain or a heart attack. The risks for developing coronary artery disease include elevated cholesterol, especially high LDL with low HDL levels, elevated triglycerides, smoking, obesity, high blood pressure, increasing age and diabetes. It is important to keep cholesterol and triglyceride levels within normal range to reduce the risk of coronary artery disease.
Heart-Healthy Diet
Eating a heart-healthy diet and limiting intake of carbohydrates made from white flour and sugar can help keep cholesterol and triglyceride levels low. According to MayoClinic.com, fats and cholesterol-containing foods, such as butter and egg yolks, should be limited, along with high-sodium foods. Protein choices should include lean meats and fat-free dairy products. Eating more fresh and frozen fruits and vegetables is suggested. Carbohydrate choices should include whole grain breads, pasta and cereals. It is also important to control portion size by weighing and measuring foods and planning meals ahead of time.
Reducing Risk Factors
Keeping both cholesterol and triglyceride levels low can help reduce the risk of developing coronary artery disease. According to FamilyDoctor.org, several things can be done to reduce the risk of developing coronary artery disease. Smoking should be strictly avoided, as nicotine raises blood pressure. Having blood pressure, cholesterol and triglyceride levels checked yearly can reduce risks as well. Regular exercise, eating a heart-healthy diet and keeping a healthy weight are also beneficial.
References
- MedlinePlus: High Blood Cholesterol and Triglycerides
- American Heart Association: Good vs. Bad Cholesterol
- American Heart Association: Triglycerides
- National Heart Blood and Lung Association: What is Coronary Artery Disease?
- MayoClinic.com: Heart Disease
- FamilyDoctor.org: Coronary Artery Disease: Reducing Your Risk
