Many factors increase your risk of developing high triglycerides. The good
news is that several are wholly or partly within your control. By changing your
behavior, you may be able to reduce your risk.
Lifestyle Factors
Obesity -- the term for excess body fat -- has a large impact on
triglycerides. The risk is particularly high if you carry extra pounds around
your waist. Being obese often goes hand in hand with lack of exercise. But
whatever your weight, physical inactivity also increases the chance of a
triglyceride problem.
Excessive alcohol -- more than two drinks a day for men or one drink for
women -- is linked to high triglycerides as well. Other lifestyle factors that
may play a part include cigarette smoking and, in some people, a
high-carbohydrate diet. There are 2 more risk factors you need to know ›