Triglycerides
Triglycerides
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Description
Our blood primarily contains two types of fats: cholesterol and triglycerides. Triglycerides are used by the body as an energy source, while cholesterol is necessary for building cells and producing various hormones.
If the levels of these fats become too high in the blood, they may be stored in the liver, potentially leading to fatty liver disease, or deposited in the walls of blood vessels, resulting in what is commonly known as arteriosclerosis (atherosclerosis). This condition can, in turn, lead to cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks and strokes. Triglycerides are mostly absorbed from the diet, whereas cholesterol, although present in foods, is predominantly produced by the body.
Cholesterol and triglyceride tests are blood tests that measure the total amount of fats (cholesterol and triglycerides) in the blood. Cholesterol travels through the blood bound to a protein, forming a complex called a lipoprotein. Lipoprotein analysis can determine the levels of total cholesterol, LDL cholesterol, HDL cholesterol, and triglycerides in the blood. Triglycerides are a type of fat used by the body to store energy and fuel muscles, with only small amounts typically present in the bloodstream.
High Levels
High blood fat levels often do not cause noticeable symptoms, but scientific studies have shown an increased risk of developing atherosclerosis and cardiovascular diseases when triglyceride levels exceed 1.7 mmol/L, even if still within the reference range. Significantly elevated triglycerides (>10 mmol/L) also raise the risk of pancreatitis, a potentially life-threatening condition. Since triglycerides are derived from food, levels can be managed through dietary changes and increased physical activity, thereby reducing the risk of these diseases. However, some individuals may have genetic factors that lead to high triglycerides despite a relatively healthy lifestyle.
High cholesterol levels can also have genetic origins (familial hypercholesterolemia). Secondary hypercholesterolemia may be seen with poorly controlled diabetes, hypothyroidism, or kidney, pancreas, and liver diseases. High intake of carbohydrates, oral contraceptives, pregnancy, steroid hormones, diuretics, and beta-blockers can also raise levels. Increased triglycerides alone are not a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases, with the target value being less than 1.7 mmol/L.
The primary cause of elevated triglycerides is lifestyle-related, especially diets high in refined carbohydrates, obesity, type-2 diabetes, or excessive alcohol consumption. Genetic factors may also affect triglyceride levels.
Important Note on Testing
Triglyceride levels rise significantly after a meal, especially one high in fat. Inadequate fasting before a blood test can result in falsely elevated values. To ensure accurate assessment of blood fat levels, the test should be conducted after 10-12 hours of fasting (water, as well as black coffee or tea without milk or sugar, is allowed).
Certain medications, such as corticosteroids and estrogen supplements, can increase triglyceride levels. Elevated triglycerides are also associated with hypothyroidism and certain kidney diseases.
Low Levels
Low triglyceride levels are not typically linked to health issues and are generally associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease. Certain medications and Omega-3 supplements can also lower triglyceride levels. However, very low triglyceride levels may indicate inadequate food intake or malabsorption issues in the intestines, which may require further investigation.
