Wellness
Understanding Triglycerides in Your Diet
Learn what triglycerides are, why they are a trending health topic, and how their levels can impact your overall wellness and risk for heart disease.
What is it?
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat found in your body and come from foods like butter, oils, and other fats. They are different from cholesterol, which is a waxy substance used to build cells and hormones. When you consume more calories than your body needs, it converts those extra calories into triglycerides, which are then stored in your fat cells for later energy use. A simple blood test can measure your triglyceride levels. For adults, a normal level is considered to be below 150 mg/dL.
Why is it trending?
Awareness of triglycerides is growing due to their significant link to heart health. With cardiovascular disease being a leading cause of death globally, managing all risk factors is a key wellness trend. High triglycerides are often a sign of other conditions like obesity, metabolic syndrome, and type 2 diabetes. Since about 25% of people in the U.S. have elevated levels, monitoring and managing them through diet and exercise has become a major focus in nutrition and preventative health.
How does it affect people?
High triglyceride levels (hypertriglyceridemia) can negatively affect health. They may contribute to the hardening and thickening of artery walls, a condition known as atherosclerosis. This increases the risk of stroke, heart attack, and heart disease. Extremely high levels can also lead to acute pancreatitis, which is a severe inflammation of the pancreas. Conversely, maintaining healthy triglyceride levels through regular exercise, a balanced diet, and limiting sugar and alcohol can significantly lower these health risks and improve overall well-being.