Facts about TGL

Triglycerides definition and facts

High triglyceride levels can be lowered with medication and naturally through diet and exercise.

Triglycerides are particles in the blood that transport fat. They come from excess sugar (refined carbohydrate) and fat intake in the diet and can also be made in the liver. Triglycerides are converted into energy in the body; for example, to fuel muscles. If people don't use their muscles after eating, the excess triglycerides will be stored as fat or in the liver.

High levels of triglycerides in the bloodstream are a risk factor for heart disease and stroke and obesity. High triglycerides are associated with more than a 70% increased risk of coronary heart disease. High triglycerides are especially significant risk factors for people with type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome.

Causes of high blood triglycerides include:

• genetics,
• obesity,
• insulin resistance,
• type 2 diabetes,
• high-carbohydrate and/or high-fat diet,
• excessive alcohol consumption,
• sedentary lifestyle,
• hypothyroidism,
• renal disease, and
• medications such as beta-blockers, thiazide diuretics, glucocorticosteroids, anabolic steroids, and some HIV medications.