Hypertriglyceridemia: the most effective dietary supplements

Hypertriglyceridemia is a condition in which the level of triglycerides in the blood is too high. Triglycerides are a type of fat the body stores to produce energy. A level that is too high can be detected during a blood test, usually after 12 hours of fasting. According to medical criteria, a normal triglyceride level is below 1.5 g/L, while moderately elevated levels are between 1.5 and 2 g/L, and a very high level is above 5 g/L.

Symptoms

Often, hypertriglyceridemia causes no particular symptoms and is discovered during a routine blood test. However, when levels are very high, fatty deposits may appear as small yellowish bumps on the skin, called xanthomas. A major risk is acute pancreatitis, a serious inflammation of the pancreas that occurs when triglycerides are too high.

Causes of hypertriglyceridemia

Hypertriglyceridemia results from two main mechanisms: overproduction of triglycerides by the liver or the intestine, or a decrease in their removal by the body. When levels exceed 10 g/L, this condition can disrupt blood circulation in small vessels, particularly those of the pancreas, leading to an inflammation called pancreatitis. Hypertriglyceridemia can have genetic origins or be related to lifestyle factors or diseases: • Genetic causes (primary): Some people may have hereditary abnormalities that prevent them from properly metabolizing fats. For example, rare genetic disorders such as chylomicronemia or familial hypertriglyceridemia. • Acquired causes (secondary): These include various lifestyle-related factors, underlying diseases, and the use of certain medications. An unbalanced diet high in saturated fats and simple sugars, combined with a sedentary lifestyle, promotes overweight, obesity, and type 2 diabetes, which are major contributors to this condition. In addition, conditions such as chronic kidney failure or hypothyroidism can alter lipid metabolism, leading to an accumulation of triglycerides in the blood. Alcoholism also plays a significant role by increasing the liver's synthesis of triglycerides. Finally, some medications, such as corticosteroids and diuretics, can disrupt lipid metabolism and worsen this situation. These different factors underscore the importance of medical follow-up to identify and treat underlying causes.

Dietary measures

• Reduce caloric intake, especially in cases of overweight. • Limit foods high in sugars and alcoholic beverages. • Eat more oily fish (rich in omega-3), which help reduce triglycerides. • Exercise regularly to improve overall health.

Drug treatments

• Fibrates: These medications are often prescribed to lower triglyceride levels. • Omega-3: Omega-3 dietary supplements can help regulate triglycerides. • Statins: Primarily used to lower cholesterol, they may be prescribed if a more comprehensive treatment is needed. • Nicotinic acid: Used with caution because of its side effects.

Prevention

To prevent hypertriglyceridemia, it is essential to maintain a healthy lifestyle: • Diet: Adopt a balanced diet low in saturated fats and sugars. • Physical activity: Engage regularly in moderate physical activity, such as walking or cycling. • Medical monitoring: Regular blood tests can help monitor triglyceride levels and detect any problems early.