An elevated serum triglyceride level (above 150 mg/dl) is a risk factor for coronary artery disease, stroke, and at extremely high levels (above 500 mg/dl), pancreatitis. Changes in the diet can help reduce elevated triglyceride levels in the blood.
Triglycerides
Triglycerides are the transport form of fat in the blood. A certain amount comes from dietary fat. A higher amount comes from dietary carbohydrates. The body packages excess calories---especially from sugars---in the form of triglycerides. These are to be stored as fat for later use, but in some people, they continue to circulate in high levels in the blood stream.
Effect of Dietary Fat
Mono- and poly-unsaturated fat sources to replace saturated fats can help lower triglyceride levels. Fatty fish, which contain omega-3 fatty acids, should be eaten more frequently to replace saturated fats from meat.
Effect of Dietary Carbohydrates
Excess calories in the form of carbohydrate are turned to fat for storage, raising triglyceride levels. Sugars, alcohol and fruit (when eaten above calorie requirements) will lead to an elevation in triglyceride levels in susceptible persons.
Weight Maintenance
Being overweight contributes to high triglyceride levels. Avoiding excess calories and maintaining ideal body weight helps control serum triglyceride levels.
Monitor Triglyceride Levels
Always fast 12 hours before a blood test for triglycerides. Levels are very sensitive to food intake, reflecting recently digested dietary components.
