Triglycerides
triglycerides?
I was just wondering if not totally fasting before blood work could have affected my results. I was told my triglycerides were 249 but my cholesterol was fine. I had a 12oz can of coke about two hours before my test. I have now been about to stave my self to death trying to figure out how to lower the triglyceride level. Someone told me the simple sugars in the soda my have temporarily raised my triglycerides and that i may not have a problem at all. I would love to hear from someone that knows about this sort of thing. Thanks i advance for any help or advice.
Public Comments
- Very simply, diet and exercise. A 12 oz can of coke before the exam is not going to affect the result, and neither is starving or fasting yourself.
- The coke isn't going to affect your triglyecerides too much, so it's probably accurate. It is best to fast 12 hours before the test though, for the most accurate results. Don't starve yourself - it's just going to make you want to run out and eat a big old ice cream cone when you break. The same things that lower cholesterol levels - exercise, a moderate diet, and fiber, fiber, will help lower triglycerides. However, there's a heridetary factor, too, and it's not completely dependent on what you're eating. I'm vegetarian, 5 foot 6, just barely over 100 pounds, run a few miles most days, and I have triglycerides way higher than you have. I have normal cholesterol, but only if I mind myself about taking fiber suppliments. I've tried the flaxseed oils, but to be honest, they just make me, uh, gassy. Talk to your doctor. He or she will have a good idea about what you can do. Sometimes only medication will help. It depends on your age, weight, general health and risk factors. It's not the worst thing in the world, it's just something you need to keep an eye on.
- Triglycerides are affected by sugar in the blood, but it's not likely that your actual level is much lower than the reading you received. Next time, be sure you have nothing to eat or drink for at least 10 hours before the test. The only exception would be a little water if you need to take some medications.
