Eight Natural Ways to Lower Your Triglycerides
by www.SixWise.com
Source: sixwise.com
Triglycerides are a type of fat in your blood that,
when too high, can contribute to hardening of the
arteries -- and an increased risk of stroke, heart
attack and heart disease.
In fact, anytime you eat, calories that aren't used up
right away are converted into triglycerides and stored
in your fat cells. Later, when you need energy, the
triglycerides will be released. However, if you
regularly eat too many calories, particularly from
sugar and refined carbs, you may have high
triglycerides in your blood.
To know for sure a blood test should be done.
According to the National Cholesterol Education
Program, here's what your results mean:
*
Normal: Less than 150 mg/dL
*
Borderline-high: 150 to 199 mg/dL
*
High: 200 to 499 mg/dL
*
Very high: 500 mg/dL or higher
How to Lower Your Triglycerides Naturally
Exercising five or more days a week is an essential
tool to lower your triglycerides.
Though high triglycerides can lead to serious health
problems, the good news is that the lifestyle changes
listed below can go a long way toward getting your
levels back to normal.
1. If you're overweight, cut back on calories to
reach your ideal weight.
2. Avoid unhealthy fats like trans fats, but DO eat
healthy fats like those from olive oil, nuts and
avocados.
3. Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.
4. Reduce your intake of alcohol, as even small
amounts can raise triglyceride levels.
5. Get plenty of omega-3 fats, either from
wild-caught, low-mercury fish or from a high-quality
fish oil supplement.
6. Cut back on sugary foods and drinks, as sugar
increases insulin production, which in turn increases
triglycerides.
7. Exercise at a moderate intensity for at least 30
minutes five or more days a week.
8. Use stress-management tools to help you relax.
Studies show that stress causes triglycerides to stay
in your blood longer, so the less stress you face, the better.
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