Triglyceride Levels: Normal Standards, Potential Hazards from High Levels, and Additional Insights
Triglycerides, a type of fat naturally produced by the body and derived from food, play a crucial role in maintaining our overall health. Doctors classify triglyceride levels in adults as healthy (under 150 mg/dL), borderline high (150 to 199 mg/dL), high (200 to 499 mg/dL), or very high (over 500 mg/dL). For children, the ranges vary: normal levels are under 75 mg/dL for those under age 10, borderline high is 75 to 99 mg/dL, and high is over 100 mg/dL for children under 10, while for teenagers aged 10 to 19, normal levels are below 90 mg/dL, borderline high between 90 and 129 mg/dL, and high levels over 130 mg/dL [1].
Maintaining triglyceride levels within an appropriate range is essential as it may help reduce the risk of heart disease and other disorders. Moderate weight maintenance through diet and exercise is often the first line of treatment for lowering triglyceride levels. Adults should aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity or 75 minutes of vigorous, high-intensity aerobic physical activity per week [2]. Exercise promotes calorie burning and may help keep triglyceride levels low.
Triglyceride levels naturally increase after a meal but tend to decrease during fasting. Fasting can be an effective way to lower triglyceride levels. Interestingly, a diet that includes certain vegetables, some fruits, fiber-rich whole grains, legumes, some lean protein sources, liquid oils like olive oil, and limits added sugar, alcohol, sweet and baked goods, sugar-sweetened beverages, and processed meats has been suggested to help manage triglyceride levels [3].
In some cases, lifestyle changes may not be enough to lower triglyceride levels. Drug therapy may be recommended when a person has dangerously high triglyceride levels that need to come down quickly or if their levels do not respond to lifestyle and dietary changes. Beta-blockers are a type of medication that can alter the body's triglyceride levels [4]. Supplements or medications such as fish oil, bempedoic acid, fibrates, and statins may be prescribed to help lower triglyceride levels if diet and exercise are not sufficient [5].
However, it's important to note that these supplements or medications could interact with other medications a person is taking, so it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional before taking them. High triglyceride levels may not cause symptoms, but anyone who thinks they may have high triglyceride or cholesterol levels should contact their doctor [6]. Several factors may contribute to higher triglyceride levels, including obesity, alcohol consumption, excessive sugar intake, high saturated fat intake, physical inactivity, metabolic syndrome, insulin resistance, diabetes, thyroid conditions, pregnancy, chronic kidney disease, inflammatory diseases, and rheumatoid arthritis [6].
In conclusion, maintaining healthy triglyceride levels is essential for reducing the risk of heart disease and other disorders. A balanced diet, regular exercise, and maintaining a healthy weight are key to achieving and maintaining healthy triglyceride levels. If diet and exercise are not sufficient, medication or supplements may be prescribed. It's always important to consult a healthcare professional for personalised advice and guidance.
References:
[1] American Heart Association. (2019). Triglycerides: Why They Matter to Your Heart. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/why-cholesterol-matters/triglycerides-why-they-matter-to-your-heart
[2] Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. (2021). Physical Activity for Everyone. Retrieved from https://www.cdc.gov/physicalactivity/everyone/guidelines/index.htm
[3] American Heart Association. (2021). Mediterranean Diet. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/mediterranean-diet-101
[4] Mayo Clinic. (2020). Beta-blockers. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/drugs-supplements/beta-blockers/description/drg-20069916
[5] National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute. (2021). High Triglycerides. Retrieved from https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health-topics/high-triglycerides
[6] American Heart Association. (2021). High Triglycerides. Retrieved from https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/cholesterol/why-cholesterol-matters/high-triglycerides
- In addition to heart disease, high triglyceride levels could potentially increase the risk of various medical-conditions such as ankylosing spondylitis, macular degeneration, multiple sclerosis, psoriasis, and other chronic diseases.
- Depression and anxiety are sometimes associated with high triglyceride levels, further emphasizing the importance of maintaining a healthy triglyceride range.
- HIV and hepatitis are examples of conditions that can lead to increased triglyceride levels, which should be monitored closely during treatment.
- Obesity, a chronic health-and-wellness issue, is often linked to high triglyceride levels, making it essential to maintain a healthy weight.
- Asthma, a common respiratory condition, can be co-morbid with high triglyceride levels, highlighting the importance of monitoring overall health in asthma management.
- Crohn's disease, an inflammatory bowel disease, can lead to increased triglyceride levels, requiring specific therapies-and-treatments to manage triglyceride levels alongside the primary condition.
- In some cases, high triglyceride levels can be a sign of cardiovascular-health issues, prompting further screening and necessary interventions.
- Medicare, the United States federal health insurance program for older adults, covers certain treatments for high triglyceride levels but may require pre-authorization for certain prescriptions.
- Fitness-and-exercise, an important aspect of a balanced lifestyle, can help manage triglyceride levels alongside a nutritious diet.
- Triglycerides can have a predictive role in determining a person's risk of developing chronic diseases due to their contribution to overall health and wellness.
- AQ, a group of specialized water-soluble fibers, may have benefits for triglyceride management in some individuals, but more research is needed.
- When considering medication or supplements to lower triglyceride levels, it's important to consider possible interactions with existing therapies or treatments, as this may impact the overall effectiveness and safety.
- Maintaining healthy triglyceride levels is not only about consuming a balanced diet and engaging in regular exercise but also consistent monitoring of triglyceride levels for early detection and intervention.
- Although triglycerides are an essential component in the body, it's crucial to maintain them within an appropriate range to avoid potential health complications and contribute positively to overall well-being.
