Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in your body. When you eat, your body converts any calories it doesn't need to use right away into triglycerides, which are stored in your fat cells. Later, hormones release triglycerides for energy between meals.
While cholesterol is used to build cells and certain hormones, triglycerides are purely an energy source. High levels of triglycerides in the blood are strongly linked to an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
Typical Triglycerides reference ranges (mg/dL)
| Normal | < 150 | Fasting level |
|---|---|---|
| Borderline High | 150 – 199 | Increased cardiovascular risk begins here |
| High | 200 – 499 | Significant risk factor |
| Very High | > 500 | Risk of acute pancreatitis |
Triglyceride levels spike significantly after eating. For the most accurate result, this test requires a 9-12 hour fast.
What high triglycerides mean
High triglycerides are a key component of 'metabolic syndrome' — a combination of high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess belly fat, and low HDL ('good') cholesterol. This combination significantly increases your risk for heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
Unlike LDL cholesterol, which is heavily influenced by genetics, triglycerides are highly responsive to diet and lifestyle. The most common culprits for high triglycerides are a diet high in refined carbohydrates and sugar, excessive alcohol consumption, obesity, and lack of exercise.
The risk of pancreatitis
While mildly high triglycerides increase long-term heart disease risk, extremely high triglycerides (above 500 mg/dL, and especially above 1000 mg/dL) pose an immediate, acute risk: inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis). This is a severe, painful condition that often requires hospitalization.
When to contact your healthcare team
- Triglycerides above 500 mg/dL require medical intervention to lower the risk of acute pancreatitis.
- If your triglycerides are borderline or high, it is a strong signal to review your diet, alcohol intake, and exercise habits with your doctor.
Common questions
Why did I have to fast for this test?
Triglyceride levels rise sharply after a meal as your body processes the fats and carbohydrates you just ate. Fasting for 9-12 hours ensures the test measures your baseline 'cleared' level rather than the sandwich you ate for lunch.
What is the fastest way to lower triglycerides?
Because triglycerides are formed from excess calories, cutting out sugary drinks, refined carbohydrates (white bread, pasta), and alcohol are the most effective dietary changes. Regular aerobic exercise also helps your body burn triglycerides for fuel.
Related guides
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Medical disclaimer: Educational only; not medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. AI-generated interpretations are not reviewed by a physician or human clinician. Do not use this content for emergencies; consult a qualified healthcare professional. Do not post personal laboratory results publicly. Reference intervals vary between laboratories—use the value, unit, date and range printed on your own report, and consult a qualified healthcare professional about your results and symptoms.