The Facts

High triglycerides in blood plasma are called hypertriglyceridemia. Elevated triglycerides are often linked to coronary artery disease and are sometimes an indicator of other conditions such as untreated diabetes.

Dietary Changes

If you are overweight, cut back on calories and strive to reach your ideal weight. Emphasize fruits, vegetables and non-fat dairy products. Reduce your intake of trans fat and saturated fat. Include fish rich in omega-3 fatty acids in your diet, such as salmon and mackerel.

Physical Activity

Regular physical exercise can help to lower triglycerides. Ideally, strive to exercise 30 minutes or more five days a week. If you can't fit in 30 minutes, add in extra activity whenever you can, such as a brisk walk or a bike ride.

Other Changes

Cut back on your alcohol intake. According to the American Heart Association, even small amounts of alcohol can lead to large changes in your triglyceride level.

Medication

Your doctor may recommend medication if your triglyceride levels are very high. Cholesterol-lowering medications such as fibrates or niacin are often helpful in lowering triglycerides. Your doctor may prescribe statins if you also have low HDL ("good" cholesterol) or high LDL ("bad" cholesterol). He may also prescribe a combination of statins and fibrates or nicotinic acid.

Source:

Mayo Clinic - High Triglycerides

American Heart Association

More Information:

American Heart Association - Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations