Triglycerides Evidence now suggests that triglycerides may be major trouble-makers for the heart. Triglycerides are fat molecules packed along with cholesterol in the lipoprotein transport spheres. High triglyceride levels displace HDL cholesterol. Triglycerides may also be responsible for the development of blood clots that form and block the arteries, resulting in a heart attack. The molecules have a structure similar to LDL and carry a protein that may deter the body's ability to dissolve blood clots and so may contribute to heart attacks.
More research is needed.
Some research indicates that they may be an important risk factor for coronary artery disease. A number of studies have now demonstrated that reducing LDL and total cholesterol levels and boosting HDL levels have improved survival and prevented heart attacks in people with or without heart disease, even when their cholesterol levels were considered normal. Although these guidelines are extremely useful, they do have pitfalls. The use of this ratio may predict coronary artery disease more accurately than total cholesterol levels. All rights reserved.