High Triglycerides

• High triglyceride levels are harmful for the heart.sphygmomanometer image by Podfoto from Fotolia.com
  
  A study conducted by Dr. J.E. Hakanson of the University of Washington published in the Journal of Cardiovascular Risk found that high plasma triglycerides are a risk for cardiovascular health. The condition is known as hypertriglyceridemia, and aside from high-calorie foods, it can be caused by diabetes, kidney stones or your genetic makeup.
  
  

Guidelines for Triglycerides

• Triglyceride levels are measured by carrying out a fasting blood test. The unit used to record triglycerides is milligrams per deciliters (mg/dL). The National Cholesterol Education Program provides guidelines for triglycerides, according to which: normal is less than 150 mg/dL; borderline high is 150 to 199 mg/dL; high is 200 to 499 mg/dL; and very high is above 500 mg/dL. So if your triglyceride test reads 132, it means your triglyceride levels are within normal range.
  
  

Treatment

• At least 30 minutes of daily exercise are a must for a healthy heart.Man on the exercise bike image by Elzbieta Sekowska from Fotolia.com
  
  The U.S. government guidelines state that since triglycerides increase the risk of heart disease, even those with borderline high triglycerides should be very careful about their weight and diet. At least 30 minutes of exercise is advised each day to maintain healthy triglyceride levels. Special dietary care should also be taken by avoiding high-saturated fats like red meat, egg yolks, shellfish and offal, and keeping away from high-sugar foods because they trigger insulin to raise triglycerides. Losing excess weight and quitting smoking is also advised. If you suffer from other conditions like diabetes or hypertension, manage them as they can also raise your triglycerides.
  
  

Omega-3 Fatty Acids

• Salmon is a good source of omega-3 fatty acids.salmon image by cherie from Fotolia.com
  
  According to an article by Dr. B.J. Holub in the Canadian Medical Association Journal, consumption of omega-3 fatty acids--found mainly in fish--along with other forms of treatment is one of the most effective ways to treat hypertriglyceridemia. Salmon, mackerel, trout and tuna are all high in omega-3s. Other foods containing omega-3s are mustard seeds and flaxseeds. Approximately 4 g of omega-3 fatty acids are suggested daily.
  
  

Medication

• Sometimes, especially in the case of familial hypertriglyceridemia, exercise and diet needs to be supplemented with medications to lower your triglyceride levels. Your doctor might prescribe you drugs like Lipitor, Mevacor or Zochor. He may also suggest fibrates or nicotinic acids.