Myths vs facts: Triglyceride and Wechseljahre

Myths vs facts about triglycerides and menopause: A common myth is that triglycerides are less important than cholesterol. Fact: Elevated triglycerides are an independent risk factor for cardiovascular disease, especially after menopause when estrogen decline alters lipid metabolism. Another myth: Supplements alone can lower triglycerides. Evidence shows lifestyle changes—reducing sugar and alcohol, increasing omega-3s and exercise—are most effective. Medications like fibrates or high-dose fish oil may be prescribed when needed. The belief that only overweight women are affected is also false; normal-weight women can develop high triglycerides during menopause. Fasting triglyceride measurement is simple and should be part of routine screening. Caveat: Genetic tests for single SNPs (e.g., in APOA5) have low predictive value and do not replace clinical assessment. Evidence is based on large epidemiological studies and clinical guidelines. Bottom line: Triglycerides are a key marker modifiable by lifestyle and medication—debunk myths and rely on proven facts.