Many amongst us suffer from the problem of high levels of triglycerides. Studies have shown that high triglyceride levels can cause heart ailments especially heart attacks and stroke, with these conditions becoming more prevalent for people with low levels of HDL (good cholesterol). Patients suffering from Type 2 Diabetes are also at an increased risk of contracting this condition, i.e., triglycerides and diabetes have a deeper connection.
Click here to book your HB A1C levels.
The Triglycerides levels are generally checked by doing a fasting blood test (you are expected to keep an empty stomach till your blood sample is collected). This is typically a cholesterol test, which is also known as the Lipid profile or Lipid panel.
Very high levels of triglycerides are also known to cause liver and pancreatic problems.
Triglycerides are a fat type that is found in our blood and are generally stored in the fat cells. When we eat, any calories that our body doesn’t need to get converted into triglycerides.
So, when we are consuming calories at a faster rate but burning them at a slower pace, it will cause triglyceride levels to rise. An elevated level of triglycerides in the blood is called Hypertriglyceridemia.
As triglycerides are simply stores of fat, they can’t really move about in your body by themselves. Lipoproteins carry these triglycerides around your body to the cells they need to reach through your blood.
Keep in mind, that these fatty deposits are vital and an essential part of your normal bodily function. But when the triglycerides level is too high and when it is accompanied by high levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) this can be dangerous.
When the triglyceride levels are high, there may not be any symptoms as it is also a silent health problem. However, it does have health implications – it increases the likelihood of a heart attack or a stroke.
High triglycerides also indicate that you may be insulin-resistant, i.e., your body is not using the insulin hormone properly. This means you are unable to control your blood sugar levels and because of this, you could be a pre-diabetic which will eventually end up as Type 2 diabetes.
High triglycerides also harden the arteries and cause inflammation in the pancreas. If the inflammation in the pancreas continues it will cause pancreatitis.
High levels of triglycerides also indicate fatty liver disease. Bad lifestyle choices, especially wrong food choices lead to the accumulation of fats in the bloodstream, i.e., triglycerides. These fat deposits are also found in the liver.
To check for fatty liver, you should get liver function tests such as ALT and AST done. Like triglycerides, the fatty liver also does not show any symptoms. However, if ignored, it can lead to liver cirrhosis or permanent damage.
How to Control:
One of the best ways to control the triglyceride levels in the body is by making healthy lifestyle changes!
Triglycerides and alcohol don’t go together! Alcohol is extremely high on calories and is known for its high sugar content. Thus, if you have been diagnosed with high triglyceride levels, you must keep a check on your alcohol intake.
Regular bouts of physical activity do wonders for our body. Aim to reserve at least 30 minutes each day and do yoga, walking, stretching, swimming, etc. Keep changing your exercise routine so that your body doesn’t get accustomed to one exercise regime and the variety also keeps you motivated. Studies prove that regular exercising helps to combat triglyceride levels and also aids in the production of ‘good’ cholesterol. So, on days when you are thoroughly pressed for time, ditch the lift and take the stairs instead.
If you are obese, it is extremely pivotal that you shed those extra pounds. Resort to a healthy diet and always aim to maintain ideal body weight. When you focus on your diet – try to eat fewer calories. Instead, focus on a high intake of fresh fruits and veggies and cut down the consumption of sugary foods like soda and other aerated drinks.
When it comes to your fat intake, eat good healthy fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in food items such as fish, olive oil, etc. Refrain from eating unhealthy fats which are found in food items such as cheese, butter, etc.
Avoid the intake of food items that are rich in refined carbohydrates such as white flour as they tend to up your triglycerides levels.
An increase in the proportions of fiber in your diet also helps to up the absorption of fat by the body. This helps to reduce the triglycerides levels in the blood too.
As far as possible, adhere to a fixed meal pattern by eating at regular intervals. Diet and positive lifestyle-related changes are two crucial factors that can help to manage and maintain your triglyceride levels.
Also Read: Why Does Mouthwash Burn? Decoding Oral Health Mysteries
If after regular checking too, if your triglyceride level count doesn’t fall within the prescribed range then probably it’s time you consult your doctor. The doctor may then have to prescribe medication to bring the levels to a normal range.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Ref
1.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33797418/
2.https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/aha-diet-and-lifestyle-recommendations#:~:text=a%20wide%20variety%20of%20fruits,liquid%20non%2Dtropical%20vegetable%20oils
3.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6320919/#:~:text=The%20DASH%20diet%20is%20characterized,grains%20%5B89%2C99%5D.
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28840462/
Many amongst us suffer from the problem of high levels of triglycerides. Studies have shown that high triglyceride levels can cause heart ailments especially heart attacks and stroke, with these conditions becoming more prevalent for people with low levels of HDL (good cholesterol). Patients suffering from Type 2 Diabetes are also at an increased risk of contracting this condition, i.e., triglycerides and diabetes have a deeper connection.
Click here to book your HB A1C levels.
The Triglycerides levels are generally checked by doing a fasting blood test (you are expected to keep an empty stomach till your blood sample is collected). This is typically a cholesterol test, which is also known as the Lipid profile or Lipid panel.
Very high levels of triglycerides are also known to cause liver and pancreatic problems.
Lifestyle changes include dietary changes such as reduction of carbohydrate intake, avoidance of sugar-sweetened beverages, and processed carbohydrates, regular exercise, and weight loss. Weight loss of 5% to 10% is associated with a reduction of triglyceride levels. Similarly, regular aerobic exercise can reduce triglycerides.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Triglycerides are a fat type that is found in our blood and are generally stored in the fat cells. When we eat, any calories that our body doesn’t need to get converted into triglycerides.
So, when we are consuming calories at a faster rate but burning them at a slower pace, it will cause triglyceride levels to rise. An elevated level of triglycerides in the blood is called Hypertriglyceridemia.
It is a myth that only people over 35 Need to Be Tested for Lipid profile. The fact is that your cholesterol should be checked every 5 years from childhood to middle age. Men ages 45 to 65 and women ages 55 to 65 should have it checked every 1-2 years. After age 65, make it yearly. If you have high cholesterol, you may need more frequent testing to make sure your meds and lifestyle changes are working.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D
As triglycerides are simply stores of fat, they can’t really move about in your body by themselves. Lipoproteins carry these triglycerides around your body to the cells they need to reach through your blood.
Keep in mind, that these fatty deposits are vital and an essential part of your normal bodily function. But when the triglycerides level is too high and when it is accompanied by high levels of bad cholesterol (LDL) this can be dangerous.
When the triglyceride levels are high, there may not be any symptoms as it is also a silent health problem. However, it does have health implications – it increases the likelihood of a heart attack or a stroke.
High triglycerides also indicate that you may be insulin-resistant, i.e., your body is not using the insulin hormone properly. This means you are unable to control your blood sugar levels and because of this, you could be a pre-diabetic which will eventually end up as Type 2 diabetes.
High triglycerides also harden the arteries and cause inflammation in the pancreas. If the inflammation in the pancreas continues it will cause pancreatitis.
High levels of triglycerides also indicate fatty liver disease. Bad lifestyle choices, especially wrong food choices lead to the accumulation of fats in the bloodstream, i.e., triglycerides. These fat deposits are also found in the liver.
To check for fatty liver, you should get liver function tests such as ALT and AST done. Like triglycerides, the fatty liver also does not show any symptoms. However, if ignored, it can lead to liver cirrhosis or permanent damage.
How to Control:
One of the best ways to control the triglyceride levels in the body is by making healthy lifestyle changes!
Triglycerides and alcohol don’t go together! Alcohol is extremely high on calories and is known for its high sugar content. Thus, if you have been diagnosed with high triglyceride levels, you must keep a check on your alcohol intake.
Regular bouts of physical activity do wonders for our body. Aim to reserve at least 30 minutes each day and do yoga, walking, stretching, swimming, etc. Keep changing your exercise routine so that your body doesn’t get accustomed to one exercise regime and the variety also keeps you motivated. Studies prove that regular exercising helps to combat triglyceride levels and also aids in the production of ‘good’ cholesterol. So, on days when you are thoroughly pressed for time, ditch the lift and take the stairs instead.
If you are obese, it is extremely pivotal that you shed those extra pounds. Resort to a healthy diet and always aim to maintain ideal body weight. When you focus on your diet – try to eat fewer calories. Instead, focus on a high intake of fresh fruits and veggies and cut down the consumption of sugary foods like soda and other aerated drinks.
When it comes to your fat intake, eat good healthy fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats found in food items such as fish, olive oil, etc. Refrain from eating unhealthy fats which are found in food items such as cheese, butter, etc.
Avoid the intake of food items that are rich in refined carbohydrates such as white flour as they tend to up your triglycerides levels.
An increase in the proportions of fiber in your diet also helps to up the absorption of fat by the body. This helps to reduce the triglycerides levels in the blood too.
As far as possible, adhere to a fixed meal pattern by eating at regular intervals. Diet and positive lifestyle-related changes are two crucial factors that can help to manage and maintain your triglyceride levels.
If after regular checking too, if your triglyceride level count doesn’t fall within the prescribed range then probably it’s time you consult your doctor. The doctor may then have to prescribe medication to bring the levels to a normal range.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Ref
1.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33797418/
2.https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/nutrition-basics/aha-diet-and-lifestyle-recommendations#:~:text=a%20wide%20variety%20of%20fruits,liquid%20non%2Dtropical%20vegetable%20oils
. 3.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6320919/#:~:text=The%20DASH%20diet%20is%20characterized,grains%20%5B89%2C99%5D.
4. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28840462/
‘Cholesterol’ is a term that we all have heard of but most of us have a vague idea about what it really is. We all know that this term comes up when heart health is being discussed. But there is more to cholesterol than that. You might be wondering why you should bother learning more about it. The reason is, the right balance of cholesterol is crucial for your overall health, including, yes, your heart.
So let us find out more about cholesterol.
Cholesterol is a wax-like substance that can be found in all the cells of the body. Cholesterol has received a lot of bad press because it is linked with heart disorders. But you probably didn’t know that cholesterol is essential to maintain the structure of the cells, for the synthesis of many hormones such as oestrogen, testosterone, adrenal and for producing Vitamin D.
There are 2 sources of cholesterol – your liver and the foods that you consume. Did you know that your liver produces all the cholesterol that your body needs? The cholesterol found in foods is called dietary cholesterol. When you consume eggs, dairy products or meat, cholesterol enters your body from outside.
There are mainly two types of cholesterol- HDL and LDL. These are lipoproteins (lipids+proteins).
HDL – High-Density Lipoprotein or HDL is also called good cholesterol. HDL collects excess cholesterol from your body and transports it to the liver which breaks the cholesterol down and your body expels it. This means HDL can protect you from heart attacks and strokes.
LDL – Low-Density Lipoprotein is called bad cholesterol because when in excess, it leads to the build-up of fats in your blood vessels. This hardens and narrows your arteries, limits the passage of blood to your heart and other vital organs, eventually triggers damage of the heart’s muscles, heart attack or cardiac arrest.
Everyone should keep an eye on their cholesterol levels.
Why cholesterol test? We tend to eat a lot of unhealthy foods that increase LDL levels in our bodies. A cholesterol test should be part of your preventive healthcare check. Since heart disorders are being reported in people as young as 40, it is best to get tested as soon as you enter your 30s.
The cholesterol test is a simple blood test that is included in the lipid profile test that will measure the levels of HDL, LDL and triglycerides in your blood.
Healthy parameters of HDL and LDL:
| Men | Women | |
| Desirable levels of HDL | 60 mg/dL or above | 60 mg/dL or above |
| HDL levels that put you at risk | Less than 40 mg/dL | Less than 50 mg/dL |
| A safe level of LDL | Less than 100 mg/dL | Less than 100 mg/dL |
| Total cholesterol | |
| Acceptable | Less than 170 mg/dL |
| Borderline | 170 – 199 mg/dL |
| High | 200 mg/dL or more |
If the cholesterol test reveals that your blood cholesterol levels are normal, then congratulations and continue living a healthy life and partaking in a healthy diet.
If your cholesterol level is deranged, then don’t panic. It is possible to lower the levels with a few simple steps. All you need is determination and discipline. But if you do not take the appropriate action, then there is a high chance that heart disorders will set in.
Measures to take to lower cholesterol levels or prevent high cholesterol
A few lifestyle changes go a long way to improve your heart health:
Foods like red meat and full-fat dairy increase your cholesterol level. So make sure to consume these in moderation. Switch to double skimmed milk and dairy products. Try to replace red meat with lean meat like chicken or duck.
Trans Fats are mostly found in partially hydrogenated vegetable oils and have been banned by many countries. Trans Fats are present in margarine, fast foods, commercial bread and cookies. Remember, do not heat any cooking oil beyond its smoke point (the temperature at which oil begins to emit smoke).
Omega 3 fatty acids help in increasing your HDL i.e., good cholesterol level and have enormous health benefits. These healthy fats can be found in flax seeds, walnuts, oily fish like salmon, mackerel, herring, hilsa, etc.
Soluble fibre doesn’t let LDL deposit in the arteries. Consume whole fruits and beans, peas, oats, apples, pears every day.
Brisk walking, jogging, skipping, cycling or swimming can do wonders for your heart. 30 minutes of exercise, 5 times a week, is highly recommended.
When you give up smoking your HDL levels will improve. At the same time, your blood pressure will be brought under control and your blood circulation too will be enhanced.
Try to use cold-pressed oil for cooking and baking because these do not contain trans fats. You can also consider ghee as a substitute. It contains plenty of monounsaturated Omega 3 fatty acids that are good for your heart. Avoid palm oil at all costs.
Also Read: What is Spirulina: Understanding the Research-Based Benefits and Uses
Unchecked high levels of cholesterol can lead to several complications. Cholesterol is deposited in the form of plaque in the arteries. This leads to the hardening of arteries and high blood pressure. Since enough blood can’t reach your heart, it damages the musculature of the heart, eventually leading to a heart attack.
The surest way to keep your cholesterol level in check is through a healthy lifestyle and regular cholesterol tests.
Also Read: Palm Oil: Is It Really Bad for You? An In-depth Look
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Diabetes mellitus is a metabolic disease that affects the pancreas. In this, the body is unable to properly process the energy released from the food leading to high sugar levels. When this happens over a period, it causes organ damage and other serious complications. There are no apparent reasons why people get diabetes, but many factors in their genes and lifestyle increase their odds of suffering from this disease. Diabetes mellitus can occur because of two reasons. Either the pancreas does not produce a sufficient amount of insulin, a hormone essential for using sugar in the body (Type 1) or because the body develops resistance to the insulin coursing through the system (Type 2). A third kind is known as Gestational Diabetes which occurs when a pregnant woman without a previous history of diabetes develops high sugar levels.
Diabetes mellitus (DM) is a chronic metabolic disorder characterized by persistent hyperglycemia. It may be due to impaired insulin secretion, resistance to peripheral actions of insulin, or both. Chronic hyperglycemia in synergy with the other metabolic aberrations in patients with diabetes mellitus can cause damage to various organ systems, leading to the development of disabling and life-threatening health complications, most prominent of which are microvascular (retinopathy, nephropathy, and neuropathy) and macrovascular complications leading to a 2-fold to 4-fold increased risk of cardiovascular diseases.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Following are the most common symptoms:
If you have type 1 diabetes, you need insulin therapy to stay healthy. It replaces the insulin your body doesn’t make. If you have type 2 diabetes, insulin therapy might be part of your treatment. It’s needed when healthy lifestyle changes and other diabetes treatments don’t control your blood sugar well enough.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Diabetes mellitus has no cure. It is a chronic disease that can be best managed by keeping the blood sugar levels under control. However, care must be taken that the sugar levels don’t get too low as that is more harmful and can even be fatal.
Most importantly, this condition requires medical intervention, therefore, do not self-diagnose or take medications without proper consultation.People can live healthy lives with diabetes provided they keep their sugar levels in check. With a proper lifestyle and medications, many live long, quality lives.
Also Read: Desserts For Diabetics: An Expert’s Guide To Enjoying Sweet Treats Safely
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
