Statins
Statins decrease
triglycerides in people with moderately
high triglycerides. They have a modest effect on higher triglyceride levels. Statins are not recommended unless the person also has high
LDL levels.
Nicotinic Acid
Nicotinic acid (
niacin) lowers triglycerides along with lowering LDL
cholesterol and
raising HDL (good) cholesterol. Although this medication is available over the counter, it should only be used under a doctor's supervision.
Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are a great option for people who like to use more natural treatments. While eating more
omega-3 fatty acids (such as by eating more fish) would be ideal, many people cannot (or do not want to) eat the foods that contain these fatty acids. In such situations, an omega-3 fatty acid supplement may be appropriate. These can include nonprescription supplements (usually in the form of
fish oil capsules) or a prescription product (
Lovaza®).
Triglycerides are not a bad thing. They do serve a very important purpose in keeping the body healthy. Unfortunately, some people have high triglycerides in the blood (known as hypertriglyceridemia). Having high levels of triglycerides for long periods of time can greatly increase your risk of serious medical problems, like
heart disease,
stroke,
atherosclerosis, and other heart and blood vessel problems.
Even though high triglycerides can be a serious problem, they can be controlled in most cases. Whatever approach you take to lowering triglycerides, making a lifelong commitment to decrease your high triglycerides is a very worthy goal.
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