Triglycerides: Why They Matter and How to Lower Them

3. Lose weight and/or maintain a healthy weight. 

Many times weight loss alone will lower your triglycerides.  Losing as little as 10% body weight could drop your triglycerides back to the normal range.

4. Choose a low-fat diet.

To achieve lower triglyceride levels, maintain a dietary intake of 30% or less of total calories coming from fat.  A healthy diet for normal triglyceride levels should consist of whole grains, beans, fruits, vegetables, low-fat dairy, and lean meat. 

5. Increase your physical activity.

Boosting your activity can lower your triglycerides up to 40%.  If you're not currently active, talk to your MD before starting an activity program.  To reduce triglycerides, be physically active at least 30 minutes on 3 or more days each week.  The more activity the better.

Triglycerides aren't all bad.  They provide efficient energy storage, cushion your organs, transport certain vitamins, and keep you warm by providing insulation.  What's important is to keep them under control!

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Read more of Lisa's posts:

Get a Grip on Fatty Acids

Top 5 Omega-3 Sources to Lower Cholesterol