Triglycerides, also known as lipids, are a common type of fat found in the blood. They enter the bloodstream either through consumption of fatty foods, excessive carbohydrates, calories, or simple sugars, or through the body releasing its fat stores. In normal levels, triglycerides are fundamental for health making them a critical measurement for metabolic health. However, in excessive amounts, lipids pose a few health risks:
1. Increased risk of Heart Diseases.
High triglyceride levels in the blood can lead to plaque build-up in the arteries. When this happens, walls of the arteries thicken or become hard, a condition called atherosclerosis. This condition increases one's susceptibility to health complications such as heart disease, stroke, or heart attack.
2. Affects blood sugar.
Having high triglycerides could be a sign that the body is not utilizing insulin appropriately. When this happens, glucose cannot enter the cells in the blood raising blood sugar levels, which can cause diabetes. Untreated diabetes is a major health risk because it increases the risk of heart attacks and other heart complications.
3. Increased risk of Pancreatitis.
If triglyceride levels are high, it can cause inflammation of the pancreas leading to Pancreatitis. Pancreatitis can be acute or chronic and some symptoms include nausea and vomiting, fever, abdominal pain and increased heart rate. Severe
pancreatitis can damage other vital organs like the lungs and kidneys.
4. Damages the liver.
High triglycerides can be an indication of fatty liver disease. Fatty liver disease is not easily detectable because its symptoms are not easy to notice, but it leads to permanent liver damage and cirrhosis.
Avoiding the development of high triglycerides is crucial to wellbeing. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle by eating natural foods, avoiding excess calories, excluding processed foods, and increasing physical activity are some of the ways to achieve this.
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