Q. My doctor says my triglyceride levels are elevated. Should I be worried?
A
Triglycerides are a type of lipid that the body stores in fat cells and uses for energy. Problems begin when excess triglycerides circulate in the blood. Blood triglyceride levels above 200 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL) increase the risk of heart attack and stroke and raise the risk of death from cardiovascular disease by 25%. Even when LDL cholesterol levels are under control, elevated triglycerides encourage the development of plaque in arteries throughout the body. To prevent heart disease, your triglyceride level should be less than 100 mg/dL.
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