Triglycerides are a form of energy storage like fat. That is, they are calories that the body does not need immediately, turning them into energy reserves (triglycerides). When triglyceride values exceed the normal range, they can affect our health; although there is no specific age to start its control, it is recommended to do so from the age of 30, when various risk factors for developing this condition are accentuated. However, if there is overweight or obesity, it must be earlier, warns Dr. Víctor Salcedo, an internist at Clinica Ricardo Palma, offer us more information on the subject.

Some factors that cause elevated triglycerides are:

• Overweight, obesity, sedentary lifestyle, imbalance in the consumption of certain foods, excessive alcohol intake, genetic factors and diseases that are associated with high triglycerides such as diabetes mellitus, among others.

How to diagnose high triglycerides?

Triglyceride levels are measured through a laboratory blood test, establishing the following ranges:

• Normal: less than 150 mg / dL (milligrams per deciliter)
• High limit: 150 to 199 mg / dL
• High: 200 to 499 mg / dL
• Very high: Above 500 mg / dL

Levels above 150 mg/dL represent a cardiac risk factor and very high levels can cause acute pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas).

How to lower high triglyceride levels?

• Controlling weight, in case of overweight or obesity
• Considerably limiting alcohol consumption
• Performing regular physical activity
• Decreasing the consumption of carbohydrates and sugars

If, despite the aforementioned recommendations, adequate control is not achieved, the specialist may indicate drug-based treatment, carrying out the corresponding follow-up. It is important to lead a healthy lifestyle, following a balanced diet rich in vegetables and low in fat, flour and sugar, in addition to regular physical activity. Remember, preventive check-ups will help you to diagnose any disease early.

Dr. Víctor Salcedo
Internist at Clinica Ricardo Palma