Triglycerides(TGs)are a group of fatty compounds that circulate in the bloodstream and are stored in the fat tissue. Individuals who have elevated blood levels of TGs(known as hypertriglyceridemia) appear to be at increased risk of developing heart disease.
People with diabetes often have elevated TG levels. Succesfully controlling diabetes will, in some cases, lead to normalization of TG levels.
WHAT ARE THE SYMPTOMS?
Excessive TG may cause pancreatitis, enlarged liver and spleen, and xanthomas. Xanthomas are fatty deposits in the skin. Otherwise, high tryglycerides may not cause any symptoms until and unless heart disease or other diseases of the blood vessels develop.
DIETARY CHANGES THAT MIGHT BE HELPFUL
Heavy drinking is believed to be an important cause of hypertriglyceridemia. Alcoholics with hi level of TG should deal with alcoholism first.
People with high sugar levels should also reduce their sugar intake because ingesting refined sugar inreases TG levels.
There is also evidence that ingesting fructose in amounts that are found in a typical western diet can raise TG levels, although not all studies agree on that point. It should benoted that most studies of fructose investigated the refined form, not the fructose that occurs naturally in some fruits.
A change from drinking caffeinated coffee to decaffeinated coffee shows a significant reduction in the levels of TG. But be sure to eliminate intakes of caffeinated products for two weeks or more to lower your TG levels.
Water- soluble fibers such as pectin found in fruit, guar gum and other gums found in beans, and beta-glucan found in oats, may be particularly helpful in lowering triglycerides.
LIFESTYLE CHANGES THAT MAY BE HELPFUL
Exercise lowers TG levels. People with diabetes, heart disease, or aged more than 40, should consult a doctor first before beginning an exercise program.
Smokers should start to quit smoking.
Lose extra weight. Maintaining ideal body weight helps protect against elevated TG levels.
THE FOLLOWING SELF-CARE STEPS MAY BE HELPFUL
Eat Fish: eat more fatty fish
Get the niacin you need: take niacin (vitamin B3) in amounts large enough to lower your triglyceride levels, but consult your doctor first.
Slim down: try having an exercise program and healthy diet to avoid gaining extra weight.
Diet Right: Limit sugar, and other refined carbohydrates intake. Avoid drinking alcohol and caffeine.
Focus on Fitness: Begin an exercise program.
Source:Healthy Options Magazine, Delicious Living Magazine
Friday, March 13, 2009
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