Nutrition Eating with sHTG

Nutrition and eating to manage sHTG and FCS

Eating in a way that lowers your triglyceride levels does not have to feel like a chore. The Nutrition section of KnowyourTGs.com has resources to get you started and support you on your journey.

Two strategies that can also help are:

  • Working with a registered dietitian.
  • Taking a holistic approach to your health.

Other pages in the Nutrition section have practical suggestions, including some food and recipe ideas.

Working with a registered dietitian to develop an eating plan that works for you

A registered dietitian (RD) or registered dietitian nutritionist (RDN) can create meal plans that allow you to enjoy eating, while also giving you the nutrients and calories you need for a healthy life, in a way that fits your lifestyle and family needs.

Go to the page on Working with a Registered Dietitian.

Take a holistic approach to health

Holistic care means treating the whole person:

  • Taking care of your body and mind.
  • Making healthy food decisions.
  • Focusing on getting regular exercise and plenty of rest.
  • Choosing nutrition and lifestyle options that promote your best health and limiting those that worsen your condition.

Don’t forget to take care of your mind, too. Living with a chronic condition can weigh you down, emotionally and mentally.

  • Take time for yourself and seek support.
  • Relieve stress by going for a walk with a friend.
  • Connect with other people who have high triglycerides for support.

Your dietitian and other members of your healthcare team can help you find ways to take care of your whole person. See the page on Your Healthcare Team.

Eating with familial
chylomicronemia
syndrome (FCS)

Food and beverages play a key role in the lives of patients with FCS. Eating with FCS can be a challenge, but an FCS-friendly food plan may help prevent complications.

Having FCS is hard, but manageable

Due to their inability to break down fat, people with FCS can eat no more than 20 grams of total fat spread throughout the day and not all in one big meal.

They should avoid drinking alcohol and limit simple carbohydrates like sugar, candy, juices, and soft drinks. Refined carbohydrates like white flour, white bread, white rice, and processed cereals can also cause triglyceride levels to rapidly increase to dangerous levels.

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