What is the cause of high triglycerides?
Triglycerides are the most abundant lipids in the body, and most tissues can use triglyceride breakdown products for energy. At the same time, liver, adipose and other tissues can also synthesize triglycerides and store them in adipose tissue. However, elevated triglyceride levels are closely related to the occurrence and development of atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, diabetes and other diseases. So, what's the deal with high triglycerides?
1. What are triglycerides?
Triglycerides, also known as neutral fats, are the most abundant lipids in the body. It is mainly found in adipose tissue, arterial lumens and blood, and is another major type of blood lipid in the blood in addition to cholesterol. The main physiological function of triglycerides is to supply and store energy, and also to maintain normal metabolic and immune function.
2. Causes of high triglycerides.
1.Improper diet: Excessive intake of high-fat, high-calorie, high-sugar foods, such as fried foods, fatty meats, cakes, etc., will increase the synthesis of triglycerides. At the same time, long-term intake of too little or excessive dieting can also lead to elevated triglyceride levels.
2.Lack of exercise: Long-term lack of exercise can lead to insufficient energy expenditure in the body, which in turn can lead to elevated triglyceride levels. Moderate exercise can promote the metabolism and consumption of triglycerides.
3.Diseases: Some diseases such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, obesity, etc., can also cause elevated triglyceride levels. In addition, liver disease can also affect the metabolism and excretion of triglycerides.
4.Age factor: Triglyceride levels may also increase gradually with age. This may be related to age-related metabolic changes and dietary habits.
5.Genetic factors: Familial hypertriglyceridemia is hereditary, characterized by significantly elevated triglyceride levels and may be accompanied by complications such as cardiovascular disease.
3. The harm of high triglycerides.
Elevated triglyceride levels increase the risk of cardiovascular diseases such as atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, cerebral infarction, etc. In addition, high triglycerides may also cause health problems such as fatty liver disease and obesity. Therefore, timely detection and control of triglyceride levels is essential for maintaining good health.
4. How to reduce triglyceride levels.
1.Adjust your diet: Reducing your intake of high-fat, high-calorie, high-sugar foods and increasing your intake of low-fat, high-fiber foods such as vegetables, fruits, and whole grains can help lower triglyceride levels. At the same time, control the amount of food you eat appropriately and avoid excessive dieting or overeating.
2.Increase the amount of exercise: Moderate aerobic exercise such as brisk walking, running, swimming, etc., can promote the metabolism and consumption of triglycerides. It is recommended to get at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity per week.
3.Weight control: Maintaining a healthy weight range can help lower triglyceride levels. Control your weight and avoid obesity by eating and exercising.
4.Quit smoking and limit alcohol: Both smoking and alcohol consumption can affect triglyceride levels, and quitting smoking and limiting alcohol can help lower triglyceride levels.
5.Medications**: Under the guidance of a doctor, some triglyceride lowering drugs such as fibrates and niacin drugs can be used.
6.Regular check-ups: Regular lipid profiles are necessary for people with familial hypertriglyceridemia or those with pre-existing cardiovascular disease. By detecting and controlling triglyceride levels in a timely manner, the risk of cardiovascular disease can be reduced.
In conclusion, understanding the causes and harms of high triglycerides and taking scientific measures to reduce triglyceride levels is essential for maintaining good health. At the same time, paying attention to family genetic factors, regular physical examination and screening are also important measures to prevent cardiovascular diseases.