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What is a Diet to Lower Triglycerides?

B. Miller
B. Miller

Triglycerides are fats that are found in the blood, and which come from the food eaten. The body needs triglycerides for energy, but when triglyceride levels become too high, it can put one at an increased risk of heart disease. A simple blood test that measures cholesterol can check for triglyceride levels; if the levels are too high, the doctor may recommend a diet to lower triglycerides. This diet generally consists of eating more fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while cutting back on or eliminating sugars and simple carbohydrates.

A doctor may be able to provide specific advice for a diet to lower triglycerides, or a great deal of information may be found by searching online. High triglycerides may be caused by poor diet, obesity, diabetes, or hypothyroidism, among other causes. The first step to beginning a diet to lower triglycerides is to cut back on alcohol, sugar, and white flour. Processed foods and sweets are often the highest in sugar and carbs, and it is best to avoid these as much as possible.

Glasses of skim milk, which can be drunk by those trying to lower triglycerides.
Glasses of skim milk, which can be drunk by those trying to lower triglycerides.

Fruits and vegetables are essential parts of a diet to lower triglycerides. It is important to eat a few servings of fruit every day, and to make vegetables part of every meal. Some people try altering their portion sizes by making a large vegetable dish for the main dish, and eating a small portion of meat or carbohydrates on the side. Fruits and vegetables are complex carbohydrates and are the most important part of a healthy diet.

Staying hydrated is important.
Staying hydrated is important.

In a diet to lower triglycerides, it is best to avoid red meat as much as possible, and to eat lean protein such as chicken or fish. Beans and soy products are also excellent sources of protein, and are a healthy choice for this diet. It is also often recommended that people with high triglycerides cut back on dairy products such as milk and eggs, or switch to a low-fat or skim milk instead.

Avoiding red meat may help lower triglycerides.
Avoiding red meat may help lower triglycerides.

Whole grains are an important part of a diet to lower triglycerides, so choose whole-grain breads and cereals. Whole grains are also an important source of fiber, which can help to lower triglycerides. Following a sensible eating plan is just one part of lowering triglycerides and improving overall health. It is important to get enough exercise, which is generally considered to be at least 20 to 30 minutes per day, and to get enough sleep. Staying hydrated is important as well, and one should try to drink approximately six to eight glasses of water per day.

Discussion Comments

Rundocuri

Every morning I eat something that has a high-fiber content, like oatmeal or granola. This helps keep me full so I don't crave snacks before lunchtime, which encourages me not to eat high triglyceride foods. Anyone who is trying to lower their triglycerides should give this diet plan a try, since breakfast sets the pace for the entire day.

Heavanet

I think that it is also important to eat lots of fish, since introducing healthful fats and omega 3 fatty oils into the diet helps balance the negative effects of triglycerides. Since omega oils help to prevent bad fats from doing damage, they protect the body from triglycerides. Eating a low-triglyceride diet along with foods that are rich in this beneficial fat is the best strategy for maintaining a healthy heart.

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    • Glasses of skim milk, which can be drunk by those trying to lower triglycerides.
      By: chris32m
      Glasses of skim milk, which can be drunk by those trying to lower triglycerides.
    • Staying hydrated is important.
      By: studiovespa
      Staying hydrated is important.
    • Avoiding red meat may help lower triglycerides.
      By: Brent Hofacker
      Avoiding red meat may help lower triglycerides.
    • A low-cholesterol diet should include whole, unprocessed grains like oatmeal in addition to fiber-rich fruits.
      By: kentoh
      A low-cholesterol diet should include whole, unprocessed grains like oatmeal in addition to fiber-rich fruits.