If you have high triglycerides, there are certain types of foods you should avoid. We’ll review them in detail so you know what you should avoid at your next trip to the grocery store.
What are triglycerides? They are a type of fat that is found in your blood. When you eat, your body converts calories it doesn’t use into triglycerides, which are stored in your fat cells.
When they are needed later, hormones can release triglycerides for energy between meals. Let’s take a look at various foods that contribute to high blood triglyceride levels.
Starchy Vegetables and Food
Did you know corn and peas are considered starchy vegetables? You should avoid starchy vegetables and foods because your body can turn the extra starch into triglycerides. Pick up non-starchy vegetables like spinach, kale, and cauliflower instead.
Honey and Sugary Drinks
Avoid sugary drinks such as sweet iced tea, soda, fruit juice, or a syrupy coffee drink. These are excess sugars that will contribute to high triglycerides. Also, you may think honey is a natural way to sweeten your tea, but it’s also a source of sugar.
Baked Goods
The bakery is always a tempting section of the grocery store. Bear-claws, croissants, muffins, and donuts abound. All tempting treats that are generally no-no’s when it comes to a healthy, diabetes-friendly diet. A large reason for this is because the butter that’s baked into pastries contains a lot of saturated fat. Check the nutrition labels. Along with saturated fat, avoid trans fats altogether.
High Fat Meat
High-fat meat includes all processed meats, including bacon, sausage, and ham. Instead, go for leaner cuts of meat such as turkey and chicken.
Butter or Margarine
Butter and margarine contain saturated fat or trans fat. This is the type of fat you should avoid. Instead, use Extra Virgin olive oil, canola, and flaxseed oils as alternatives.
Alcohol
You may think a glass of red wine won’t hurt you, and may actually be good for your heart. But, you might want to think twice before going for that second glass. The sugar content in what you consume may contribute to triglycerides.
Coconut
Coconut sounds like a healthy and natural sweetener, but be careful. It’s also high in saturated fats, so ask your doctor if you should limit it or avoid it completely.
For more about how to reduce triglyceride levels, check out the following article.
NOTE: The information is not intended to be a replacement or substitute for consultation with a qualified medical professional or for professional medical advice related to diabetes or another medical condition. Please contact your physician or medical professional with any questions and concerns about your medical condition.