When taking blood tests, many people often pay attention to cholesterol and ignore triglycerides. This is a common type of fat in the blood, which plays a role in providing energy for the body. After eating, excess calories will be converted into triglycerides and stored in fat cells for later use.
Dr. Deebanshu Gupta, an interventional cardiologist at Sarvodaya Hospital (India) said that triglycerides are essential for the body, but when they increase, they will begin to harm the heart and blood vessels.
Difference between triglycerides and cholesterol
Triglycerides and cholesterol are both fats in the blood but play different roles. Triglycerides are mainly a source of stored energy, while cholesterol participates in cell building and hormone production.
According to Dr. Gupta, when high triglycerides are combined with high bad cholesterol or low good cholesterol, the risk of plaque formation in arteries will increase significantly.
Risk when triglycerides increase
High triglycerides can increase the risk of cardiovascular disease, stroke, metabolic syndrome, and fatty liver. At very high levels, this condition can also cause pancreatitis.
This is a silent risk factor because there are often no obvious symptoms," Dr. Gupta emphasized. This makes many people only detect it when complications have occurred.
Causes of high triglycerides
According to experts, the most common cause comes from lifestyle:
Eat more sugar and refined starch
Consuming too many calories
Lack of exercise
Overweight
Drinking alcohol
In addition, diseases such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, or genetic factors can also increase triglycerides.
Effective ways to reduce triglycerides
Dr. Gupta said most cases can be improved by lifestyle changes:
ADJUST your diet: Reduce sugar, limit processed foods, increase green vegetables and healthy fats
Exercise regularly: At least 30 minutes per day
Even light weight loss is beneficial
Limit alcohol and quit smoking
In addition, some foods such as fatty fish rich in omega-3, whole grains and nuts can support better triglyceride control.
In case triglyceride levels are too high or cardiovascular risk is high, your doctor may consider using medication.
When should I go for an examination?
You should check your health if you have high triglycerides, diabetes, obesity, or a family history of cardiovascular disease. Regular tests help detect early and control effectively.
