Triglycerides FAQ
If you stood on the sidewalk and asked people about triglycerides, few would know the facts. But if your doctor says your triglycerides are too high here are some of the things you'd need to know:
1. What are triglycerides?
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in your body. You get some from the food you eat, and your body makes some. Your triglycerides are more likely to be high if you have one or more of these health issues: high levels of LDL -- the “bad” cholesterol -- or low levels of HDL – the “good” cholesterol. Your levels may also be high with other conditions such as diabetes, pre-diabetes, or heart problems such as high blood pressure. If you’re overweight and have a large waistline, you’re also at risk for high levels.
Under the Affordable Care Act, many health insurance plans will cover preventive care services, including blood pressure and cholesterol screenings, at no cost to you. Learn more.
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2. What should my triglyceride level be?
Your doctor may recommend a goal of 150 mg/dL or less. Recently, though, The American Heart Association has suggested a lower level is best for health. That level is less than 100 mg/dL.
3. Why are high triglycerides dangerous?
They can increase your chances of having a heart attack or stroke, especially when you have a low level of HDL. They also make you more likely to develop diabetes. Here are some facts to keep in mind:
4. What can I do on my own to lower my triglycerides?
Lifestyle changes -- diet, exercise, and weight loss -- are effective ways to improve your levels. Ask your doctor for a sensible diet that will help you lower your levels. If you smoke, get suggestions on ways to help you quit. If your numbers are very high, you will likely need to take medicine to reach a healthy range.
14 Ways to Lower Triglycerides
1. What are triglycerides?
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in your body. You get some from the food you eat, and your body makes some. Your triglycerides are more likely to be high if you have one or more of these health issues: high levels of LDL -- the “bad” cholesterol -- or low levels of HDL – the “good” cholesterol. Your levels may also be high with other conditions such as diabetes, pre-diabetes, or heart problems such as high blood pressure. If you’re overweight and have a large waistline, you’re also at risk for high levels.
Did You Know?
Under the Affordable Care Act, many health insurance plans will cover preventive care services, including blood pressure and cholesterol screenings, at no cost to you. Learn more.
Health Insurance Center
2. What should my triglyceride level be?
Your doctor may recommend a goal of 150 mg/dL or less. Recently, though, The American Heart Association has suggested a lower level is best for health. That level is less than 100 mg/dL.
3. Why are high triglycerides dangerous?
They can increase your chances of having a heart attack or stroke, especially when you have a low level of HDL. They also make you more likely to develop diabetes. Here are some facts to keep in mind:
- You are on your way to being high risk if your number is between 151 and 200 mg/dL.
- You have a higher risk of heart disease if your number is above 200 mg/dL.
- Your doctor may prescribe medicine in addition to other steps you already take if your number is above 500 mg/dL.
4. What can I do on my own to lower my triglycerides?
Lifestyle changes -- diet, exercise, and weight loss -- are effective ways to improve your levels. Ask your doctor for a sensible diet that will help you lower your levels. If you smoke, get suggestions on ways to help you quit. If your numbers are very high, you will likely need to take medicine to reach a healthy range.
14 Ways to Lower Triglycerides
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