When we have a blood test, the first thing we want to know is how the cholesterol level is and the triglycerides. Both are necessary for the proper functioning of the body, but we must not confuse them. Cholesterol is a lipid that the body uses to build strong cells; instead, triglycerides are the ones that we use to generate energy. The latter have a plant and animal origin to a greater extent.
The triglycerides that we have in our body can be acquired through food or generated through the liver. The problem is that when there is an excess of triglycerides in the blood, the dreaded hypertriglyceridaemia.
What are triglycerides?
Triglycerides are the most common form of fat in our body and, as we said before, they provide the body with energy. If there is an excess of triglycerides, they are stored in adipose tissues in case their use is necessary in the future.
There are many common foods in which this type of lipid is present, but most are usually produced by the liver. When we eat carbohydrates in excess, the liver absorbs the remaining sugars and transforms them into triglycerides, so they can be stored in adipose tissues and serve as energy reserves for the future.
It is normal for anyone over the age of 20 to measure their cholesterol and triglyceride levels at least once every five years. The results are classified as follows:
- Normal – below 150 mg/dL.
- Moderate – between 150 and 199 mg/dL.
- Very high – greater than or equal to 500 mg/dL.
Why do we have a high level?
The triglyceride level can rise for different reasons. Some people suffer from genetic alterations, others are subjected to a hypercaloric diet or even due to some diseases. The most frequent causes of hypertriglyceridemia are:
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- Hypothyroidism
- Chronic renal failure
- hypercaloric diet
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Pregnancy
- The regular use of some medications such as corticosteroids, contraceptives, antiretrovirals, tamoxifen, beta-blockers...
There are some who associate the increase in triglycerides with alterations in cholesterol, but it does not necessarily have to happen. The most common cases They are high triglycerides and LDL (bad cholesterol) or high triglycerides and low HDL (good cholesterol).
How can it be reduced?
People who have a high level of triglycerides should avoid foods rich in refined carbohydrates and any ultra-processed product with unhealthy fats. You have to opt for foods rich in fiber (whole grains, nuts, fruit, legumes) and foods rich in unsaturated fat and low in saturated fat.
Of course, you have to eliminate the consumption of alcohol and any drink that provides simple sugars (soft drinks and juices).