Tackling Triglycerides
Found in butter and other fats in food, triglycerides are a common type of fat in the body. The body converts extra calories, alcohol, and sugar into triglycerides, storing them in fat cells for later use. However, high levels of triglycerides can increase your risk of heart and vascular disease.
According to the Cleveland Clinic, triglyceride levels fall into the following categories:
Normal
Below 150 mg/dL
Mild
150-199 mg/dL
Moderate
200-499 mg/dL
Severe
> 500 mg/dL
To prevent or lower high triglycerides, aim to exercise at least 30 minutes a day, eat a heart-healthy diet, and cut back on alcohol.
It Pays to be Healthy
A health savings account (HSA) is a tax-advantaged account that allows individuals to save pre-tax dollars for qualified medical expenses, including copays, prescriptions, eyeglasses, and much more. For 2026, the contribution limits are $4,400 for self-only coverage and $8,750 for family coverage.
Protein Power
According to the Mayo Clinic, sedentary adults should consume 0.8 grams of protein per kilogram of body weight. For example, a person weighing 150 pounds (68 kilograms) should consume around 54 grams of protein each day. For adults who exercise regularly, 1.1 to 1.5 grams per kilogram
is recommended.
Beat The Heat
As warmer weather approaches, it’s important to stay hydrated – especially when working outdoors. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, when working in the heat, it’s recommended to drink 1 cup (8 ounces) of water every 15 to 20 minutes.
Meet the Author
Ali Lemmons, BS, Summa Cum Laude
Ali Lemmons is a graduate of the University of Tennessee at Chattanooga, where she earned a Bachelor of Science in Communications with a minor in computer science with the distinction of summa cum laude. While at UTC, Ali earned the Outstanding Senior Award for the communication department and was inducted into the Kappa Tau Alpha honor society. As editor/digital content specialist for CMC Media & Marketing Group, Ali leads the ideation, conceptualization, and development of numerous health, wellness, business, sports, and lifestyle articles published in print and online for HealthScope® and CityScope® magazines as well as Choose Chattanooga® and Choose Huntsville™ – premier publications serving Southeast Tennessee, North Georgia, and North Alabama. She is also involved in content creation for Digital Smart Marketing customers and is the lead copywriter for the company’s social media accounts. In her free time, Ali enjoys reading, hiking, and exploring everything the Scenic City has to offer.
