What causes high triglycerides? - #12326
I am really confused about my recent test results because they showed I have high triglycerides, like way higher than normal. A couple of months ago, I had noticed I was feeling kinda sluggish and had this weird pressure in my chest sometimes, but I thought it was just stress from work. I eat pretty well, like lots of veggies and lean meats, but I also have a weakness for sweets and occasional fast food. My doctor didn’t delve too deep into what causes high triglycerides when I asked, just mentioned some lifestyle changes. But honestly, I’m feeling overwhelmed and wanna understand more. What causes high triglycerides anyway? Is it just diet, or could there be more to it? I’ve been trying to cut back on sugar, but it’s tougher than I expected! Could something like genetics be a factor too? My dad had a heart issue, and I’m starting to freak out if that means I'm heading down the same path. I just can’t shake this worry about what causes high triglycerides in the first place. Like, isn't it more complicated than just what we eat? Any advice would be super helpful before I head back to the doc. Thanks!
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Doctors’ responses
High triglycerides are indeed influenced by multiple factors beyond just diet, though that’s a big component. Start with the basics: your body breaks down fats from the foods you eat into triglycerides, which your body uses for energy or stores for later. When you consume more calories than you burn, particularly from sugary or fatty foods, your body may store them as triglycerides, leading to higher levels. While diet is significant, other factors come into play too. Genetics can predispose you to higher triglycerides, so there’s definitely a possibility that a hereditary component is involved, especially given your family history of heart issues. Another factor includes if you’re overweight or obese - this can significantly raise triglyceride levels. Lack of physical activity also plays a role since regular exercise helps to lower triglycerides. Additionally, excessive alcohol intake can rapidly increase triglyceride levels. Medical conditions such as diabetes, hypothyroidism, or kidney disease might contribute too. It’s important to consider medications you might be taking, as some, like beta-blockers or diuretics, can elevate triglycerides. Dealing with high triglycerides involves addressing these factors: continue aiming to reduce sugar intake and look into limiting refined carbohydrates; they spike triglycerides. Regular physical activity, even a brisk 30-minute walk daily, can be beneficial. It’s also crucial to consider other risk factors, like smoking or high blood pressure, since these exacerbate cardiovascular risks. Don’t overlook professional healthcare advice in action either; working with a dietitian or your physician’s further guidance can create a targeted plan. Reviewing any medicines you’re on for possible impacts could be an avenue. If lifestyle changes seem daunting, focus on gradual shifts; they’re more sustainable and effective in the long run. Before jumping to conclusions, especially with a family history of heart disease, detailed medical assessment is essential to guide the best course forward.
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