Medical research seems to suggest that lowering triglycerides can be crucial in reducing the risk of heart disease. Changes in diet may be a key element in lowering triglycerides. Most physicians recommend reducing intake of certain types of carbohydrates, primarily carbohydrates that create excessive spikes in glucose levels. Generally, this includes processed sugars used to make cakes, cookies, and other excessively sweet foods. Exercise may also play a role in lowering triglycerides, as it can sometimes help the body metabolize sugar.
Triglycerides are deposits of fat stored within the body, and high levels triglycerides may form as a result of excessive carbohydrate intake. When people consume carbohydrates, the body metabolizes them into glucose. The body uses what it requires of the glucose, and then some of the leftover glucose is stored within the muscles. If the body produces more glucose than muscles can store, the excess glucose converts into fat. This may be the reason that those who suffer from obesity often have high levels of triglycerides.
Muscle mass could be a defining factor in determining a safe amount of carbohydrate intake. Generally, people who have more muscle mass can tolerate much higher levels of carbohydrate because they have more muscle tissue to store excess glucose. This is probably the reason many physicians recommend bodybuilding exercises for lowering triglycerides and cholesterol. People who lead sedentary lifestyles may be more at risk for high triglycerides, and may want to consider strength training as part of their exercise routine.
Some people find it easier to develop a strength training regime by enrolling in gyms and weight training programs. Some of the benefits of such programs include professional advice and access to many different types of weight training equipment. Though gym membership can sometimes be expensive, studies usually indicate that people who train in gyms typically achieve better results than those who attempt weight training on their own. This may be especially true with beginners, who may not fully understand the process.
In some cases, doctors may prescribe medications to help in lowering triglycerides. Some of these medications include statins and fibrates. Statins generally work by inhibiting the production of glucose and glycogen. The liver produces glycogen in response to excess carbohydrate intake and may be responsible for formation of triglycerides. Some research seems to indicate that consuming vitamin B, in a water soluble form called nicotinic acid, may also help in lowering triglycerides.