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The two primary fat sources in the bloodstream are cholesterol and triglycerides. Both are vital for optimal health. Cholesterol helps build healthy cells, and triglycerides provide energy. However, if either is too high, problems develop. High cholesterol levels clog arteries. High triglycerides also cause vascular disease associated with low HDL cholesterol levels (good cholesterol). You then have fat elements in your blood, which can eventually harm your heart. The disorder is called hypertriglyceridemia.
Triglycerides (TGs) are composed of three fatty chains linked together. People with diabetes often have high TG levels, and effectively managing diabetes will often reduce TGs. The second primary cause of high TGs is drinking alcohol. Sugar also increases them. Smoking or chewing tobacco is another major cause, as is obesity.
How to Lower Triglycerides Naturally
You can manage your triglyceride level: and you want to keep it below 150. Here are several ways how to lower triglycerides naturally:
1. Consume a lot of complex carbohydrates. Racial groups doing this do not have a triglyceride problem: Cook beans, rice, and other grains, not including fat in the cooking or the serving.
2. Do not eat candy, sweets, and sugar. Eating simple carbs is a significant factor in high triglyceride levels.
3. Include fiber in the diet. A high-sweet, low-fiber diet is even unhealthier than high sweets alone. Water-soluble fibers, such as pectin in fruit and beta-glycan in oats, are especially helpful in lowering triglycerides. Psyllium seed also reduces triglycerides.
4. Omega-3 fatty acid (most affluent in raw flaxseed oil) lowers triglycerides. Take 3000 mg per day. Do not take cod liver oil; it contains too many vitamins A and D.
5. Consuming garlic also lowers triglycerides. Taken over a 1 to 4-month period, garlic can reduce them by 8 to 27 percent. You can take garlic tablets, with their allicin content at 900 mg daily (providing 5000 mcg allicin). Carnitine is another supplement that has lowered triglycerides.
6. Go on a brown rice diet for a couple of days. In 1944, Dr. Walter Kempner discovered that a rice diet significantly lower triglycerides. This diet of fruit and rice alone, and no other food, for 2 to 3 days or as long as you can stand to remain on it. The diet is not tasty, but it works.
One patient went down from 1000 mg/dl to 117 mg/dl in a few months. In just 2 to 3 days, triglycerides will go down a fair amount. You can do it again later for another couple of days. Doing this will help you lose some weight. The fruit/rice diet is fat-free. But do not stay on a rice diet! It does not supply sufficient nutrients when eaten alone.
7. Try to lose weight. Even losing ten pounds can decrease triglycerides in those who are 20 to 30 percent overweight. Ultimately, try to maintain a weight of 5 to 10 percent above what is typical for your age-weight range.
8. Abstain from consuming alcoholic beverages. It decidedly increases triglycerides. Using tobacco also does.
9. Exercise is beneficial in lowering triglyceride levels. Studies reveal that it does this even when weight is not reduced.
10. Wild yam, fenugreek, and reishi (a type of mushroom) are herbs that reduce triglycerides.
Frequently Asked Questions
It’s very possible. The American Heart Association (AHA) reveals that added sugars can significantly increase triglycerides. Surprisingly, these sugars lurk in seemingly healthy foods like yogurt, granola bars, and pasta sauce. Spotting these hidden culprits is critical in your quest to lower triglycerides naturally.
Becoming a label detective is your best weapon. The AHA advises looking for terms like “cane sugar,” “dextrose,” and “high fructose corn syrup.” Aim for less than six teaspoons (24 grams) of added sugar daily for females and nine teaspoons (36 grams) for men.
Besides sugar, are there other surprising dietary factors affecting my triglycerides?
Yes! Research suggests that refined grains, such as those in white bread and pastries, can also raise triglycerides. Replace these with whole grains to lower triglycerides naturally and enjoy other health benefits, like improved blood sugar control.
I’ve heard about fiber’s power, but how does it help lower triglycerides?
Think of fiber as a sponge in your gut. It soaks up fats, including triglycerides, preventing them from fully absorbing. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Lipidology found that increasing soluble fiber intake significantly reduced triglycerides.
Which high-fiber foods should I prioritize for maximum triglyceride-lowering effects?
Aim for a variety! Beans, lentils, oats, flaxseeds, and fruits like apples and berries are all excellent sources. Not only do they lower triglycerides naturally, but they also promote gut health and overall health.
Can exercise affect my triglyceride levels, or is it all about diet?
Exercise plays a crucial role! The National Institutes of Health (NIH) establishes that regular physical activity can decrease triglycerides by 20-30%. Aim for at least 150 minutes of modest-intensity exercise per week.
I enjoy a glass of wine with dinner. Could alcohol be hindering my progress?
Even moderate alcohol consumption can raise triglycerides. If your levels are high, it’s best to limit or avoid alcohol altogether. Consult your doctor for customized advice on how to lower triglycerides naturally concerning your alcohol intake.
Are there any specific vitamins or supplements that could help me naturally manage my triglycerides?
Omega-3 fatty acids, observed in fish oil, have shown promise in lowering triglycerides. An American Journal of Clinical Nutrition meta-analysis found omega-3s significantly reduced triglyceride levels. However, always consult your specialist before starting any new supplements.
How does stress affect triglyceride levels, and how can I manage it effectively?
Stress can indirectly affect triglycerides by triggering unhealthy behaviors like overeating or reaching for sugary comfort foods. Incorporating stress-management techniques like yoga, meditation, or spending time in nature can aid in your efforts to lower triglycerides naturally.
I’m making all these changes, but how long does it typically take to see results in my triglyceride levels?
Everyone’s body is different, but you may start noticing advancements within a few weeks to months of consistent healthy habits. Remember, patience is critical, and celebrating small victories can keep you motivated on your journey to lower triglycerides naturally.
DISCLAIMER: All content on this website is presented solely for educational and informational objectives. Do not rely on the information provided as a replacement for advice, diagnosis, or treatment from a qualified medical expert. If you are pregnant, nursing, or have any preexisting medical concerns, talk to your doctor before using any herbal or natural medicines.
REFERENCES
- Vance Ferrell Harold M. Cherne, M.D. The Natural Remedies Encyclopedia [Book]. – Altamont, TN: Harvestime Books, 2010. – Vol. Seventh Edition: 7: pp. 531, 532. [Lower triglycerides naturally]
- https://www.heart.org/en/healthy-living/healthy-eating/eat-smart/sugar/added-sugars
- https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/22760441
- https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/high-blood-cholesterol/in-depth/triglycerides/art-20048186