What Causes High Triglyceride Levels And Low HDL?

Posted on Mon, 8 Dec 2014

Mon, 8 Dec 2014 Answered on

Fri, 26 Dec 2014 Last reviewed on

Question : Hello - I have recently been diagnosed with high triglycerides (just over 240) and slightly lower HDL (38). Can you please advise steps I can take. I would like to reduce my TG and regulate this as soon as I can. Let me know if you need additional details before answering my query.

Answered by Dr. Saumya Mittal (42 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Diet and exercise

Detailed Answer:
Hi
I am Dr Mittal
I have read your query
I think I will be able to help you.

The fact remains that the profile you have suggested is typically pointing to a diet induced dyslipidemia (abnormal lipid profile). Now I am assuming all other parts of the lipid profile and other tests have been normal, and therefore the focus on just 2 tests.

I will have 2 suggestions
1. a better exercise regime. This is important because that is what is goint to bring up your HDL. The HDL is supposed to be on the higher side of the normal. And the best way to do that is to exercise. By exercise I do not mean body building. Simple exercises like walk, jogging, running are what is really needed.
This will also reduce the triglycerides.

2. Control of the diet. A good control on the diet is essential. The triglycerides are most commonly raised due to fatty foods and alcohol. And these you should actively avoid. Salads and curds are the most favored foods for the lipid profile correction. I suggest the same to you.

you already are on the medicines. So I would'nt go into that. These measures should be able to help you control your lipid profile within 3 months. repeat a test then. If it comes out normal, there are two ways most doctors proceed. most of them prefer to continue a low dose of the medicines for eternity. I agree with newer research which suggests stopping the medicine and continuing the monitoring by repeat testing every 6 months.

I hope that the information helps you. Please feel free to contact us for more details. Look up DASH diet. It is quite suitable.

Best of luck
Dr Mittal

Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Raju A.T

Follow up: Dr. Saumya Mittal (7 minutes later)

Thanks so much for the prompt response doctor. So do you recommend I stay off the medication for now? And work on the diet and exercise part? Please let me know, thanks again.

Answered by Dr. Saumya Mittal (8 minutes later)

Brief Answer:
Start all 3 options for now

Detailed Answer:
Hi
Good to hear from you again

I will suggest that for the 3 months you take the medicines, diet and exercise. Get the things under control again. And then when you repeat the test after 3 months, if it comes out normal, you can continue prevention by diet and exercise.

I may be able to help you then in deciding further course of action, if you like, after the repeat test.

best of luck
Dr Mittal

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Above answer was peer-reviewed by : Dr. Vinay Bhardwaj