Triglycerides and cholesterol are not the same. While cholesterol is used for cell construction, the body uses triglycerides for energy. Let’s look at the reasons for these increases:
1. Excessive calorie intake
The most important reason is eating more calories than the body needs. The body immediately converts this excess energy that we do not use into triglycerides and stores it.
2. Sugar & Carbs
Excessive consumption of sugar, sweet drinks, and flour dishes (watermelon, bread, and gourd) can sharply increase triglyceride levels. These quickly mix with the blood and turn into fat.
3. Alcohol consumption
Alcohol is very high in calories. When alcohol is broken down, the production of triglycerides increases in the liver. Even small amounts of alcohol can cause triglycerides to increase in some people.
4. Lack of physical activity
In people who do not exercise regularly, the body does not burn fat. This causes triglycerides to build up in the blood. Even simple exercises like walking can help reduce their levels.
5. Uncontrolled diabetes
In people whose blood sugar levels are not properly controlled, the risk of triglycerides increasing is very high. When insulin function is disrupted, the way the body handles fat also changes.
6. Thyroid and kidney diseases
Thyroid hormone deficiency (Hypothyroidism), kidney diseases, and liver diseases can cause triglyceride levels to increase. Some BP medications and hormone pills can also cause this.
3 ways to reduce triglycerides:
Fatty fish: Include fish like sardines and mackerel, which are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, in your diet.
Weight control: Losing 5-10 percent of your body weight can help reduce triglyceride levels significantly.
Fiber: Eat plenty of oats, legumes, and leafy greens.
