High triglycerides in the diet can promote cholesterol formation in the arteries and cardiovascular disease. Triglycerides are a kind of lipid, or fatty substance. The body converts calories to triglycerides where they are stored in fat cells for energy use. The normal triglyceride level is less than 150 mg/dL. High levels in the bloodstream can occur from consuming too many carbohydrates and fats, and from inactivity. According to the Mayo Clinic, dietary and lifestyle changes can help lower your triglyceride numbers.
High Triglyceride Diet
Foods that raise triglyceride levels include butter, margarine, oils and food containing simple sugars. Examples include cookies, candy, ice cream, chocolates, jellies and preserves, as well as bleached-flour breads, rice, pasta and baked goods. Starchy vegetables also convert to triglycerides in the body. Examples include potatoes, corn, peas, beans, peas and yams. Saturated fat and trans-fat in excess can raise lipid levels, according to the Cleveland Clinic. Fruit juices and dried fruits should be limited; eat whole fruits instead.
Low Triglyceride Diet
A low triglyceride diet includes wheat pastas and breads and brown rice. Eat low or no sugar sweets as substitutes for pies, cakes and cookies that all contain sugar. Ice cream, sherbet, yogurt and even granola bars that are low in sugar could lead to weight gain and high cholesterol. Choose canola and olive oil for cooking, marinades and dressings. Incorporate fish that are high in omega-3 fatty acids -- such as salmon and mackerel -- into your diet, as omega-3 fatty acids help lower triglyceride levels.
Contributors
According to Cigna Health Care, obesity, excessive alcohol intake, kidney disease, a high-calorie diet combined with not enough activity, uncontrolled diabetes and an under-active thyroid gland also contribute to high triglyceride levels. Some medications such as beta-blockers -- used to treat high blood pressure and heart disease -- steroids, estrogen and fluid pills or diuretics can also raise levels. Treating the underlying cause of high triglyceride levels is important for management.
Treatment
The Cleveland Clinic recommends limiting fat intake to 30 to 35 percent of total daily calorie intake. Saturated fat should be no more than 7 percent of total daily calories. Avoid trans-fat foods. Eat small frequent meals throughout the day and avoid late night snacking. Control portion size for weight loss. Exercise regularly. Sometimes treatment for high triglycerides requires medications. Speak with your physician about treatment with statins or anti-cholesterol medication, fibrates such as fenobitrate or nicotinic acid or niacin. Smoking cessation can also help.
