Pancreatitis and High Triglyceride levels are linked in a revolving circle of cause and effect. There is no definitive cause and effect for high triglyceride levels, but one cause is having acute pancreatitis. The problem is that one of the causes of acute pancreatitis is having high triglyceride levels. Understanding the relationship between these two medical conditions is helpful.
The Connection
The pancreas is an organ located behind the stomach that releases digestive enzymes into the small intestine to digest carbohydrates, proteins and fat. Pancreatitis is caused when the pancreas becomes inflamed or infected. When this occurs, it cannot function properly and release the digestive enzymes. This causes a build-up of fats in the bloodstream and creates high levels of triglycerides.
Triglycerides are the fat that is transported through the bloodstream to provide fuel for the cells of our body. Normal triglyceride levels are 150 mg/dl or below based on fasting blood tests, usually performed with a cholesterol tests. If the levels rise above 1000 mg/dl it can trigger inflammation in the pancreas causing acute pancreatitis. This in turn can continue to elevate the levels of triglycerides.
Elevated triglycerides are associated with some very serious health conditions. Metabolic syndrome is a condition that increases the risk for developing diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Along with high triglyceride levels (above 150 mg/dl), high blood pressure, high blood sugar, abdominal obesity and low HDL ("good" cholesterol) together make up metabolic syndrome. Most causes for elevated triglycerides are family history, along with lack of exercise, a diet high in simple sugars and very high-fat and alcohol consumption.
Stopping the Cycle
How can you stop the cycle? Making lifestyle changes is the first and best option when it comes to lowering your triglyceride level and stopping the cycle of pancreatitis. Losing weight by eating a diet high in complex carbohydrates and fiber and exercising for a minimum of 30 minutes 4 days a week. There are medications and supplements that can improve the digestion of fats, however lifestyle changes can be sufficient in lowering triglyceride levels in just a few weeks time. Talk with your physician if you feel that you need to have your triglyceride levels checked or lowered.
Tags: acute pancreatitis, cause effect, diet high, digestive enzymes, high blood, levels triglycerides, lifestyle changes