05/11/2024
"Taming high triglycerides"
This article from Harvard Health Publishing - a Harvard Medical School publication tells us that although triglycerides at very high levels require medication, LIFE STYLE CHANGES can have a big impact on triglyceride levels.
"If people with high triglycerides eat a healthier diet, exercise regularly, and lose weight, they can lower their levels by more than 50%," says Dr. Marston. These tips can help:
CHOOSE CARBS WISELY. Cut back on easily digested carbohydrates like white bread, white rice, chips, sugar-laden breakfast cereals, and anything else — including beverages — with a lot of added sugar.
WATCH FATS. Cut back on saturated fats from meat and butter, which can elevate triglycerides. Try to eat more unsaturated fats from plants, oils, and fish, which bring down triglycerides.
AVOID EXCESS ALCOHOL. Moderate drinking (one drink per day for women, two for men) may be reasonable. But less is better if your triglycerides are high.
GET MOVING. Regular exercise lowers triglycerides.
AIM FOR A HEALTHY WEIGHT. If you qualify as obese or overweight, reaching a healthy body weight can drive your triglycerides down to a normal range. Dropping even just 5% to 10% of your weight can help.
Up to 30% of Americans have above-normal levels of triglycerides, which many studies have linked to a higher risk of heart disease. Lifestyle changes such as avoiding simple carbohydrates, sweets, ...
