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Page: Role in Disease
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In the human body, high levels of triglycerides in the bloodstream have been linked to atherosclerosis, and, by extension, the risk of heart disease and stroke. However, the negative impact of raised levels of triglycerides is lower than that of LDL:HDL ratios. The risk can be partly accounted for by a strong inverse relationship between triglyceride level and HDL-cholesterol level.
Another disease caused by high triglycerides is pancreatitis.
Guidelines
The American Heart Association has set guidelines for triglyceride levels:
Level mg/dL Level mmol/L Interpretation
<150 <1.69 Normal range, lowest risk
150-199 1.70-2.25 Borderline high
200-498 2.25-5.63 High
>500 >5.65 Very high, increased risk
Please note that this information is relevant to triglyceride levels as tested after fasting. Triglyceride levels remain temporarily higher for a period of time after eating.
Reducing triglyceride levels
Cardiovascular exercise and lower carbohydrate diets are suggested for reducing triglyceride levels. Omega-3 fatty acids from fish, flax seed oil, or other sources (on the order of 5 grams of omega-3 per day), one or several grams of niacin (mega-dose vitamin B-3) per day and some statins are used to reduce triglyceride levels. Fibrates have been used in some cases as some fibrates can bring down TGs substantially. However they are not used in first line as they can have unpleasant or dangerous side effects. In one case due to an increase in mortality, clofibrate was withdrawn from the North American market. Alcohol abuse can cause elevated levels of triglycerides.
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Important notice:
The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or other
qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.
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