Triglycerides are fats that stimulate production of cholesterol in your liver, according to Henry Ford Health System. These fats also serve as fuel sources for energy; however, high triglycerides can contribute to health complications, including heart disease. Elevated triglyceride levels are common among diabetics, but several strategies can help you control triglycerides and prevent diabetes complications.
Heart Disease
High triglycerides, typically defined as greater than 200 mg per dL, may increase your risk of diabetes-related heart disease by depositing sticky plaque along the interior walls of your arteries. This may occur even if your overall cholesterol levels are normal, according to Henry Ford Health System. Plaque narrows the passages of your arteries, restricting blood flow and forcing your heart to work harder to pump blood through your circulatory system. This can enlarge and weaken your heart muscles.
Neurological Damage
High triglyceride levels in diabetics may contribute to neurological damage, according to an article published in "Diabetes Journal." Although the reason is not known, diabetics with high blood triglyceride levels are more likely to experience pain, tingling sensations and numbness, particularly in the feet, hands, legs and arms.
Dietary Triglyceride Management
Dietary changes may help lower blood triglycerides and prevent diabetic neuropathy and heart disease. Limit your total intake of fat to no more than 30 percent of your caloric intake, recommends Henry Ford Health System. If you consume 1,800 calories per day, this amounts to 60 g of fat or less. Limiting or eliminating refined sugars may also help control triglyceride levels -- avoid candy, doughnuts, commercially packaged fruit juices, soft drinks, honey, pies and cakes. Focus on fresh fruits and vegetables, legumes, nuts, whole grains and lean proteins such as tofu, fish and white-meat poultry.
Other Strategies
Avoid consuming alcoholic beverages -- diabetics who consume alcohol in any amount may be at risk of high triglycerides. Maintaining a physical exercise regimen may help lower blood triglyceride levels by up to 40 percent, notes Henry Ford Health System. Also, avoid smoking -- although it is not clear whether smoking directly elevates triglyceride levels, it can multiply heart disease risk caused by high triglycerides.
