Severe Hypertriglyceridemia &
Familial Chylomicronaemia Syndrome
GUIDANCE
When triglycerides are extremely high, the primary goal is preventing acute pancreatitis. This requires a critically strict, specialized diet.
The Golden Rules
- Eat less than 20g of fat per day (10-15% of total calories).
- Zero alcohol. Even small amounts can trigger an attack.
- Restrict added sugar and simple carbohydrates.
Foods you can eat
Always check the food label analysis of foods as values can change, and always be aware of your portion size.
Turkey and chicken breast (skin and visible fat removed), very lean cuts of ham/beef, white fish/shellfish/squid, fresh tuna (red cut only), tinned tuna in brine/spring water, lentils, kidney beans, egg whites.
Fat-free cottage cheese, skimmed milk, 0% yoghurt (be aware of sugar content).
Brown/white rice, couscous, dry pasta, jacket potato, wholemeal/white bread, chapattis.
Fresh fruit and vegetables, all herbs and spices, low calorie soft drinks, herbal teas, Prescription-only MCT oil.
Foods to avoid
You may find examples of foods in this column with an acceptable fat content. Always check analysis on food labels.
All oils including coconut oil, butter, margarine, ghee.
Chicken or turkey legs/wings/thighs, lamb, oily fish (mackerel/salmon), dressed crab/lobster, egg yolks, soy bean protein products (tofu).
Cheese/cheese spreads, full fat cottage cheese, cream, semi-skimmed milk, almond milk, coconut milk.
Olives, avocados, coconut, all nuts, all seeds, mayonnaise, salad dressings, cakes, biscuits, pastries, chocolate, crisps, fried foods, alcohol, high sugar drinks.
Build Your Day
Add your own foods or pick pre-fixed meals for each category.
Breakfast
Morning Snack
Lunch
Afternoon Snack
Dinner
All foods should be prepared without added oils, butter, or hidden fats. Always check labels.
Talk to your specialist dietitian
When following such a restricted diet, it is extremely important to talk to your specialist dietitian and medical provider so that you can be sure that you are providing your body with all its calorie, protein, essential fats, vitamin, and mineral needs. People with FCS are at a higher risk of diabetes.
About this guidance
Guidance based on Action FCS (formerly LPLD Alliance) Dietary Guidance for FCS, a charity registered in England and Wales.
Food database values are derived from the Fat and Calorie Counter published by the National Diabetes Education Program (a joint initiative of the NIH and CDC).
General education, not medical advice. Talk with your care team.