In regards to adding strength training; I went from lots of aerobic exercises to a period of just lifting weights. I added about 20 pounds (155 pounds through high school and college) to about 175 pounds. Then for a period of about 3 years, I didn’t do much, and my weight went to 195 pounds (overweight for my frame). Then for about 3 years, I rode a bicycle to and from work almost every day, my weight returned to 175 pounds. I then had another 2 year period of nothing and I regained weight to 195 pounds. As of late 1995, I began the aggressive aerobic schedule as mentioned, and my weight has returned to 175. I have added some weight training together with the aerobics, but I wouldn’t consider it aggressive weight training (like I did to gain 20 pounds.). I prefer a leaner look and feel. I believe I’m still about 5 pounds overweight for my frame, however, I do have wide shoulders.
I don’t eat many sweets, so I can’t point to a case for high triglycerides. I’m under medication for high blood pressure (140/85 on a regular basis). I take 240mg of Verapamil every morning. There is a warning that Verapamil can increase liver enzymes, but I don’t know how that would affect triglycerides.
My family has a history of hypertension. My father had a heart attack at age 55, but he was a lifetime smoker. He no longer smokes. My family also has some cases of diabetes (my sister, grandmother and some aunts and uncles). My doctor was not concerned about the lower HDL and elevated triglycerides.
I do not know my glucose level. Should I get this checked? What are the normal ranges? I do know that most of my family have elevated cholesterol levels. They have never exercised much and I’ve tried to get them to but they can’t seem to find the time.
I look forward to your comments again.
Well, your weight fluctuations are a good example of the negative effect of a sedentary lifestyle.
With your elevated triglycerides and a family history of diabetes, I would recommend you talk to your doctor about testing your blood glucose and A1C. Undiagnosed pre-diabetes could be the cause of your elevated triglycerides. Your triglycerides should be less than 150 milligrams per deciliter. Your blood sugar should be less than 105 milligrams per deciliter in a fasted state (nothing to eat after midnight the night before) and should be less than 140 milligrams per deciliter two hours after a meal. Your A1C should be less than 6.0 if you don’t have diabetes. Also until your triglycerides return to normal, I would recommend you not drink any alcoholic beverages (beer, wine, distilled beverages or liqueurs).
Your blood pressure puts you in the category of hypertension. So I would recommend you quit using salt at the table, don’t eat salty foods like bacon or sauerkraut and cook with half the amount of salt.
You didn’t mention if you smoke, but if you do, I would highly recommend you quit smoking.
