Triglycerides and blood sugar provide energy and serve other functions in the body. Triglycerides are a form of fat, or lipid. Blood sugar is predominantly in the form of glucose. These chemicals are needed for health and proper cell functioning, but excessively high or low levels can be a sign of, or lead to, disease. It is important to consult with a licensed physician or dietitian regarding fat and blood sugar management.
Triglycerides in Health
Triglycerides levels are regulated by a number of metabolic processes in the body. These fatty acids play a role in a number of biochemical pathways. Some of these pathways make useful compounds from triglycerides. The cell membranes which cover and protect your cells like skin are largely made from compounds derived from triglycerides. Molecules that pass messages to and from the cells may also be derived from triglycerides. They also help supply cells with energy. The breakdown of triglycerides helps to synthesize the main energy molecule of the cell, ATP. However, triglycerides in excess of the needs of the body can build up in the blood stream and lead to health problems.
Triglycerides in Disease
According to the American Heart Association, a normal blood level of triglycerides is less than 150 mg/dL. Borderline levels are 150 to 199 mg/dL, high levels range from 200 to 499 mg/dL and very high levels are 500 mg/dL and over. High triglycerides can be a sign of an underlying pathology such as liver, thyroid and kidney diseases. High triglycerides are also a risk factor for diseases such as atherosclerosis, or hardening of the arteries. In atherosclerosis, cholesterol deposits called plaque build up in the arteries and can cause heart disease, strokes and other health problems.
Blood Sugar in Health
Glucose is vitally important. It can be stored by such tissues as the liver in the form of glycogen. Its main function in the body is as a source of energy. Cells break down glucose to form the waste product carbon dioxide and the energy carrier ATP.
Blood glucose levels are tested in different ways, such as after eight hours of fasting or two hours after a meal. Normal levels of blood glucose are about 60 to 100 mg/dL while fasting.
Blood Sugar in Disease
Low blood sugar, called hypoglycemia, typically is caused by a high dose of diabetic medications, such as excessive insulin. However, other problems can cause hypoglycemia, such as a tumor that makes insulin, or inadequate dietary intake when glucose storage levels are low, such as in liver disease. Low blood sugar deprives the body of energy and can lead to weakness, confusion, seizures, coma and even death. Very high blood sugar causes similar problems. It disrupts the flow of blood, making it viscous, like syrup. Chronically high blood sugar does not cause immediate symptoms. However, it damages proteins in the blood vessels, leading to an increased risk of kidney disease, heart attacks and peripheral artery disease, in which the blood vessels in the legs and arms do not supply enough blood, as well as causing other problems.
References
- "Robbins and Cotran Pathologic Basis of Disease"; Vinay Kumar et al.; 8th Ed. 2009
- "Nutrition Concepts and Controversies"; Frances Sizer, Ellie Whitney; 11th Ed. 2007
- "Lehninger Principles of Biochemistry"; David L. Nelson and Michael M. Cox; 4th Ed. 2004
- American Heart Association: What Your Cholesterol Levels Mean
