What are triglycerides?
According to Dr. Mahesh DM, Consultant – Endocrinologist, Aster CMI Hospital, Bengaluru, India, triglycerides are fats found in the blood, an important component of the body's energy storage system. They are formed from glycerol and three types of fatty acids, which can be saturated or unsaturated. When the body consumes more calories than it needs, especially from carbohydrates and fats, it converts these excess calories into triglycerides.
According to India's National Heart, Lung and Blood Institute, triglycerides are found in foods, especially butter, oils and other fats that you eat. These triglycerides are then stored in fat cells for later use.
High blood triglyceride levels can indicate a variety of health problems, including obesity, diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD), which require careful monitoring, Dr. Mahesh said.
Are elevated triglyceride levels linked to diabetes risk?
Dr. Mahesh added that high triglyceride levels will cause the body's cells to not respond effectively to insulin. Insulin resistance is a major risk factor for type 2 diabetes because it impairs the body's ability to regulate blood sugar levels. The combination of high triglycerides and diabetes can also increase cardiovascular risk.
- Atherosclerosis: Elevated triglycerides contribute to plaque formation in the arteries, hindering blood circulation and increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke.
Blood vessel dysfunction: High blood sugar weakens the reactivity of blood vessels, promoting plaque formation and restricting blood flow.
Risk of blood clots: Increased blood sugar can increase blood clotting, increasing the risk of heart attack or stroke.
How to reduce triglyceride levels?
The diet should be rich in natural fiber, such as fresh vegetables, millet, whole grains, cereals and legumes. Fiber can help slow down the absorption of sugar, lower blood sugar levels and hinder the absorption of fat and cholesterol in the diet.
- Avoid fatty meats, high-fat dairy foods and desserts. Instead, choose healthier fats like olive oil and fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids.
- Reduce your consumption of foods and drinks high in sugar, such as fizzy drinks and processed foods, as these can increase triglyceride levels.
