Triglycerides are the forms in which fat exists in food as well as in body. They are carried in all plasma lipoproteins and their presence is one of the differentiators amongst lipoproteins (such as LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol etc.) Triglycerides in plasma are derived from fats and are also made in the body from energy sources like carbohydrates. Calories from triglycerides are transported to fat cells and stored. Hormones regulate the release of triglycerides from fat tissue so they meet the body’s energy needs especially between meals.

Why is excess of Triglycerides bad?
Excess of triglycerides lead to a condition called ‘hypertriglyceridemia’. Elevated triglycerides are being considered as an independent risk factor for heart disease. Elevated triglycerides may be a consequence of other disease, such as untreated diabetes mellitus.

Few Recommendations to manage Triglycerides by American Heart Association:
Changes in lifestyle habits are the main therapy for hypertriglyceridemia. These are the changes you need to make:

Look at your weight: If you're overweight, cut down on calories to reach your ideal body weight. This includes all sources of calories, from fats, proteins, carbohydrates and alcohol.
Choose Fats wisely: Reduce the saturated fat, trans fat and cholesterol content of your diet.
Cut down on alcohol: Reduce your intake of alcohol considerably. Even small amounts of alcohol can lead to large changes in plasma triglyceride levels.
An apple a day keeps the doctor away: Eat fruits, vegetables and nonfat or low-fat dairy products most often.
Pick omega 3: Substitute fish high in omega-3 fatty acids instead of meats high in saturated fat like hamburger.

BDST: 1000 HRS, FEB-18, 2016
Edited by:  Sharmina Islam, Lifestyle Editor