What are high triglycerides?

Triglycerides are a type of fat in your blood. Your body uses them for energy. You need some for good health. But high triglyceride levels are linked with a higher risk of coronary artery disease. A high level may be a sign of metabolic syndrome. Very high levels raise your risk of pancreatitis.

What causes them?

High triglycerides can run in families. They may also be caused by other conditions, like obesity and diabetes. You may have high levels of this fat if you eat or drink too many foods or drinks with added sugar or if you drink a lot of alcohol. And some medicines can cause this condition.

What are their symptoms?

High triglycerides usually don't cause symptoms. Some people may get fatty bumps under their skin.

How are they diagnosed?

A blood test is used to measure triglycerides. It's most accurate if it's done after you go without food or drink for 9 to 14 hours (fasting). Adults have a lower chance of health problems with triglyceride levels below 1.7 mmol/L.

How are they treated?

A healthy lifestyle can help lower your triglycerides and your risk of coronary artery disease. It includes aiming for and staying at a healthy weight, being active, limiting high-sugar foods and drinks, and limiting alcohol. Your doctor may recommend that you also take medicine. Your doctor will treat other health problems if they are causing high levels.

How do you care for yourself when you have high triglycerides?

A healthy diet and lifestyle can help lower your triglycerides level and lower your risk of coronary artery disease.

• Lose weight, and stay at a healthy weight.

  Triglycerides are stored as fat in your tissues and muscles.

• Limit foods and drinks that have a lot of sugar.

  These include sugar-sweetened desserts, soda pop, and fruit juice.

• Limit saturated fats.

  These are found in animal-based foods like meat, butter, milk, and cheese. They are also found in coconut oil, palm oil, and cocoa butter.

• Choose a heart-healthy eating plan.

  Eat a diet that's rich in vegetables, whole grains, fish, lean meats, and low-fat or non-fat dairy foods.

  Eating oily fish may lower your levels. These fish include salmon, mackerel, lake trout, herring, and sardines.

• If you drink alcohol, try to drink less.

  Your risk of harm from alcohol is low if you have 2 drinks or less per week. Alcohol has a strong effect on triglycerides. Work with your doctor to find what is right for you.

• Be active on most days of the week.

  Before you start to be more active, check with your doctor to be sure it's safe.

  Try to do at least 2½ hours of moderate to vigorous exercise a week.

• If you have diabetes, keep your blood sugar in your target range.
• Don't smoke.

  If you need help quitting, talk to your doctor about stop-smoking programs and medicines. These can increase your chances of quitting for good.

• Take your medicines exactly as prescribed.

  Call your doctor or nurse advice line if you think you are having a problem with your medicine.