SATURDAY, Sept.14, 2002 (HealthDayNews) -- Even if you have your cholesterol levels under control, you may still be in danger of heart disease from another type of blood fat called triglycerides.
High triglyceride levels increase your risk of diabetes, heart disease and stroke, says the September issue of the Mayo Health Clinic Letter.
Extremely high levels of triglycerides also increase your risk of pancreatititis, a dangerous inflammation of the pancreas.
Lifestyle and diet changes can reduce triglyceride levels. The Mayo Health Clinic Letter offers ideas on how to reduce your triglycerides:
- Lower your consumption of sugary foods, such as cookies and soda pop.
- Reduce your alcohol intake.
- Lose weight and exercise at least 30 minutes each day.
- Eat fish that contain high levels of omega-3 fatty acids. Examples include mackerel, lake trout, herring, sardines, albacore tuna and salmon.
- If diet and lifestyle changes don't help, talk to your doctor about medications to lower your triglycerides.
More Information
The American Heart Association has more on triglycerides.
