Triglycerides – what are they and what functions do they perform in the body?

Blood triglyceride levels are an important measure of health. What is their significance and what to do if their levels are too high?

Cholesterol and triglycerides are different types of fats (lipids) circulating in the blood. Cholesterol is used, among other things. for building cells and certain hormones, while triglycerides are used by the body as energy material. If it does not need them at any given time, it stores them in fat cells. They are released by hormones for energy between meals. If you regularly consume more calories than you burn (especially those from high-carbohydrate foods), you may have too high triglyceride levels. This condition, called hypertriglyceridemia, requires action.

Standards and their relevance to health

Triglyceride levels in the blood are usually checked as part of a fasting cholesterol test (known as a lipid panel/profile). It shows whether triglyceride levels are within the normal range:

  • norm: < 150 mg/dl,
  • limit values: 150-199 mg/dl,
  • high concentration: 200-499 mg/dl.

Above 500 mg/dl, we are dealing with severe hypertriglyceridemia. It is often associated with a group of symptoms that include the presence of excess fat around the waist, high blood pressure, and elevated blood sugar and lipid levels. High triglycerides can also be a side effect of taking certain medications.

High triglyceride levels can contribute to hardening or thickening of blood vessel walls.

How to maintain healthy blood triglyceride levels?

A healthy lifestyle is of great importance for maintaining adequate triglyceride levels in the blood. First: exercise regularly. Try to find at least 30 minutes of physical activity most days of the week. Choose the stairs instead of the elevator and walk during breaks from school or work. Regular exercise will help normalize the body’s lipid metabolism, and make it easier to maintain a healthy body weight. To achieve this goal, avoid simple sugars (except for fruits, which are worth eating every day, but in moderation). Also choose healthier fats: swap butter for oil and flaxseed or canola oil. Instead of red meat, choose fish – such as mackerel or salmon. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which have a positive effect on blood triglyceride levels. Instead, avoid foods containing hydrogenated fats. Also limit your consumption of alcohol.

To control blood triglyceride levels, you can also help yourself with a dietary supplement such as Berimal. If you decide to do so, use it according to the manufacturer’s recommendations.

Triglycerides in an amount that meets the body’s energy needs are essential for humans. In excess, they can lead to health-threatening conditions, so it is crucial to keep blood lipid concentrations in the normal range. Try to exercise more and eat healthy, and supplements can also help.