How to Avoid Heart Disease

You may already know that high cholesterol is a precursor to heart disease but did you know that you should also be watching your triglyceride levels? Triglycerides are the levels of fat in your blood and can lead to clogged arteries and heart disease. Below are five simple steps to reducing your TG levels and insuring a healthy heart.

1. Block TG's with red grapefruit. This delicious ruby-red fruit contains a unique blend of lycopene, rutin and other antioxidants which prevent your body from converting excess calories into TG's. Unfortunately, grapefruit can interact with some medications so be sure to consult your doctor before adopting them into your diet. Kiwi fruit can also be used if drug interactions are a problem.

2. Stop TG's from rising by using whole grains. Simple starches, such as those found in potatoes, white bread and other high carb foods can cause a surge in TG levels. Swtiching to more slowly absorbed starches, such as oatmeal and whole wheat bread causes TG levels to plummet by as much as 25%.

3. Spend 30 minutes a day burning off extra TG's. Something simple like cleaning, dancing or walking around the neighborhood can cut TG levels by up to 30%. Don't have time for 30 minutes? Getting in a few short ten minute workouts throughout the day will give you the same results.

4. Lower TG levels with herbs and spices. An Indian herb called guggul has been shown to lower TG levels by up to 25%. The herb revs up the livers ability to break down the artery clogging fat. You can find guggul in most health food stores. The recommended dosage is 1,500 mg daily. You can also get great results using garlic extract or cinnamon.

5. Tune out TG increasing stress with a little TV. Watching your favorite show has been shown to lower stress which in turn lowers the amount of TG's your liver produces. Reducing your daily stress level can lower TG levels by up to 50%.