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Triglycerides are a type of fat that plays a vital role in your body, acting as an energy source and providing insulation for your organs. However, when these fats are out of balance, they can become a significant health risk. While some fat in the body is necessary, having too much or too little triglycerides can impact your heart and overall health. In this article, we’ll explore what triglycerides are, why they’re important, and how to keep them in a healthy range to reduce your risk of cardiovascular diseases and other health conditions.
Table of Contents
- What are Triglycerides?
- Why are triglycerides important?
- What is a normal triglyceride level?
- Could your triglycerides level be too high or too low?
- Testing Triglycerides
- How can you lower triglycerides?
- What if my triglycerides are too low?
- Summary
What are Triglycerides?
Triglycerides are fatty substances that enter the body through food or are produced by the liver. When you eat excess calories (in particular carbohydrates) your liver produces triglycerides. Most fats we eat also contain triglycerides, such as butter, oil, and margarine. Triglycerides are stored as fat on the body for later use.
What is the difference between cholesterol and triglycerides?
Triglycerides and cholesterol are both fats, but differ in function. Cholesterol is a waxy substance produced by the liver and obtained from food, essential for making bile, hormones, and cells. Triglycerides, on the other hand, are fats used by the body as an energy source.
Why are triglycerides important?
Triglycerides play several important roles in the body. These include:
- Offering protection around your organs
- Acting as an energy source for muscles
- Carrying fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K)
- Providing insulation to the body
Maintaining a healthy balance of triglycerides is crucial for overall well-being, especially for cardiovascular health.
What is a normal triglyceride level?
There is no specific target value for triglycerides. Triglycerides are considered normal when they are below 1.7 mmol/l (Hartstichting). In this case, the risk of cardiovascular disease is lowered. The following ranges apply:
| Triglyceride Level (mmol/l) | Category | Description |
|---|---|---|
| < 1.5 mmol/l | Excellent value | A healthy level with a low risk of cardiovascular disease. |
| 1.5 – 1.7 mmol/l | Good value | A healthy range with moderate cardiovascular risk. |
| 1.7 – 2.28 mmol/l | Sufficient value | A slightly elevated range, but still considered acceptable. |
| 2.28 – 3.0 mmol/l | High value | Elevated triglyceride levels indicating increased cardiovascular risk. |
| > 3.0 mmol/l | Too high | High triglyceride levels, significantly increasing the risk of heart disease and diabetes. |
Could your triglycerides level be too high or too low?
| Triglyceride Level | Category | Diseases Related to Elevated/Low Triglycerides |
|---|---|---|
| Above 3.0 mmol/l | High Triglycerides | Heart disease, type 2 diabetes, liver disease, kidney disease, pancreatitis, thyroid disorders. |
| Below 0.8 mmol/l | Low Triglycerides | Stroke, malnutrition, hyperthyroidism, digestive disorders. |
Source: American Academy of Neurology, 2007.
What Causes Elevated Triglycerides?
Several factors can contribute to high triglyceride levels:
- Diabetes: Uncontrolled blood sugar levels can increase triglycerides.
- Overweight: Excess weight often correlates with high triglycerides.
- Unhealthy Diet: Diets high in sugar, refined carbohydrates, and unhealthy fats raise triglyceride levels.
- Excessive Alcohol: Drinking too much alcohol is a major risk factor for elevated triglycerides.
- Genetics: Some people are genetically predisposed to high triglycerides.
What Causes Low Triglycerides?
Low triglyceride levels can be caused by several factors, including:
- Malnutrition (e.g., anorexia)
- Low-fat diet
- Digestive disorders
- Hyperthyroidism
If you have low triglycerides, it’s important to investigate the underlying cause so that appropriate measures can be taken.
Testing Triglycerides
It is wise to test triglycerides if there is diabetes. This is because patients with diabetes usually have too high a level of triglycerides. It is of course also possible to perform the test if you suspect, for example because of your lifestyle or complaints, that you may be at risk of developing cardiovascular disease.
Testing triglycerides is possible as a part of Homed-IQ’s Heart Disease Blood Test. This home test is simple to perform, using only a finger prick to obtain a blood sample. In addition to determining the triglyceride value, this test includes an analysis of blood sugar and cholesterol levels. After mailing your test, a certified laboratory will examine your sample and a laboratory report will be sent to you.
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Heart Disease Blood Test
€55,00
How can you lower triglycerides?
If your triglyceride levels are too high, there are several ways to reduce them:
- Cut back on alcohol: Alcohol can significantly raise triglyceride levels, so limiting consumption is key.
- Lose weight: If you’re overweight, losing even a small amount of weight can significantly reduce triglyceride levels.
- Exercise regularly: A consistent exercise routine can help lower triglycerides and improve overall heart health.
- Eat a healthier diet: Focus on reducing saturated fats found in animal products. Instead, incorporate more plant-based foods like legumes, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Limit sugar intake: Reducing sugar, particularly processed sugars, is essential for controlling triglyceride levels.
What if my triglycerides are too low?
It is important to find out the cause of a triglyceride level that is too low in order to take appropriate measures. For example, by eating more fats or treating thyroid problems. If your triglycerides are very low, speak to your doctor about potential causes.
Summary
Triglycerides are essential fats used by the body for energy, but an imbalance—whether too high or too low—can lead to serious health issues. High triglyceride levels can increase the risk of heart disease, type 2 diabetes, liver disease, and more, while low levels may indicate problems such as malnutrition or thyroid dysfunction. Maintaining healthy triglyceride levels is key to good cardiovascular health, and lifestyle changes like a healthier diet, exercise, and reducing alcohol can help manage these levels. Testing triglycerides, especially if you’re at risk, is a simple way to monitor your health and take early action.
