How Can I Reduce High Triglyceride Levels?

I'm confused about my triglyceride levels. The last few tests indicate that they are elevated. My doctor says I'm consuming too much fat in my diet. However, I've also read that high triglycerides are a result of eating too much sugar. Which is it?

Consumption of either fat or carbohydrates can increase triglyceride levels.

If you're taking your blood test within roughly six hours of a meal, then a high triglyceride reading is generally a result of fats you've consumed. However, if you're having blood drawn after fasting for 12 hours or so (the way most tests are done), then your high triglyceride levels are exactly what you suggest—the result of too much sugar and carbohydrates. This is true for most everyone. Excess carbohydrates from sweets and grains—particularly wheat—are generally the cause of high triglyceride levels.

You should see some improvement if you eliminate sweets and high-fructose corn syrup from your diet. You may also need to limit your consumption of wheat and wheat products.

For some people, alcohol consumption can also be a problem. Even small amounts can elevate triglyceride levels. I haven't seen the research to totally confirm this, but alcohol appears to be more of a problem among individuals with depleted glutathione levels.

Most people don't want to hear the news, and refuse to accept the fact that excess consumption of sugar and carbohydrates causes heart disease, obesity, diabetes, and certain kinds of cancer. But the truth is that for many, the sweet life is also the short life.

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