From the Guidelines
Yes, triglycerides can contribute to artery blockage, though not directly like cholesterol does, by promoting the formation of atherosclerotic plaque through the modification of apoB-containing lipoprotein particles. Triglycerides are a type of fat in your blood that, when elevated above 150 mg/dL, become a risk factor for atherosclerosis (artery hardening and narrowing) 1. High triglyceride levels often occur alongside other lipid abnormalities like low HDL ("good") cholesterol and small, dense LDL particles that more easily stick to artery walls.
To manage triglycerides, focus on lifestyle changes including:
- Limiting added sugars, refined carbohydrates, and alcohol
- Increasing physical activity
- Achieving a healthy weight
- Consuming omega-3 fatty acids from fish or supplements If levels remain high despite lifestyle changes, medications like fibrates (fenofibrate, gemfibrozil), prescription omega-3 fatty acids (Vascepa, Lovaza), or statins may be prescribed by your doctor 1. Triglycerides contribute to cardiovascular risk by promoting inflammation and oxidative stress in blood vessels, making regular lipid panel testing important for monitoring your levels.
The most recent and highest quality study suggests that omega-3 fatty acids can reduce plasma triglyceride levels and contribute to the reduction of cardiovascular disease risk 1. Therefore, consumption of omega-3 fatty acids is recommended as part of a comprehensive approach to managing triglycerides and reducing cardiovascular risk.
From the Research
Triglycerides and Artery Blockage
- Triglycerides can contribute to the blockage of arteries through a process known as atherosclerosis, where high levels of triglycerides can lead to the formation of atherogenic lipoproteins 2.
- These lipoproteins can accumulate in the arterial wall, leading to inflammation and the formation of plaques, which can narrow the arteries and increase the risk of cardiovascular disease 3, 4.
- Hypertriglyceridemia, or high levels of triglycerides in the blood, is a prevalent risk factor for cardiovascular disease and can increase the risk of atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease events even in individuals with low-density lipoprotein cholesterol levels at goal 2, 5.
Mechanisms of Triglyceride-Induced Artery Blockage
- Triglyceride-rich lipoproteins can interact with arterial wall endothelial cells, leading to inflammatory responses and the acceleration of atherogenesis 4.
- The remnants of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins can also accumulate in the subendothelial space, contributing to the formation of plaques and the narrowing of arteries 3, 4.
- Genetic data suggest that the remnants of triglyceride-rich lipoproteins are a causal cardiovascular risk factor, highlighting the importance of triglyceride management in preventing artery blockage 3.
Treatment and Management of Triglyceride-Induced Artery Blockage
- Lifestyle changes, such as diet and exercise, remain the cornerstone of management of hypertriglyceridemia 2, 5.
- Pharmacological treatments, such as fibrates, niacin, and omega-3 fatty acids, can also be effective in reducing triglyceride levels and preventing artery blockage 5, 6.
- Novel drugs, such as angiopoietin-like protein 3 and apolipoprotein C3 inhibitors, are also being developed to target triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and reduce the residual risk of cardiovascular disease 4.