High triglycerides (trigs) are a warning that you need to take
better care of your health. Knowing your trig levels can help
you set goals to lower your trigs and improve your life. Here's
how: Lose weight. Cut calories and try to get as close as
possible to the weight your doctor suggests. Control high blood
pressure. Adjust your diet, reduce salt intake and take the
medicine prescribed by your doctor. Reduce alcohol consumption.
Eliminate it if you can, as alcohol raises trig levels, adds
unnecessary calories and weakens your resolve to avoid calorie
and salt-laden foods. Exercise. Try to fit in about 30 minutes a
day of daily aerobic exercise at least five days a week. Quit
smoking. Smoking greatly increases your risk for heart disease.
If you need help quitting, ask your PCP. Eat well. Enjoy more
fruits and vegetables; most medical associations recommend five
servings per day. Learn what foods are good for your heart. Cut
the fat. Reduce the amounts of saturated fat, trans fat and
cholesterol in your diet