Triglycerides Test
Also known as: TG, Triacylglycerol
What is Triglycerides?
Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) found in your blood. When you eat, your body converts calories it does not need right away into triglycerides, which are stored in fat cells.[MedlinePlus (NIH)]
What This Test Measures
This test measures the amount of triglycerides in your blood. High levels are associated with increased risk of heart disease and are often part of a lipid panel.[American Heart Association]
Why It's Important
High triglycerides contribute to hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.[American Heart Association]
Very high triglycerides can also cause inflammation of the pancreas (pancreatitis).[Mayo Clinic]
Who Should Get This Test?
Triglyceride testing is an important part of cardiovascular risk assessment.
Risk Factors
- Adults 20 years and older (routine screening every 4-6 years)
- Family history of high triglycerides or heart disease
- Type 2 diabetes or prediabetes
- Obesity or metabolic syndrome
- History of pancreatitis
- Excessive alcohol consumption
- Diet high in refined carbohydrates or sugars
- Taking medications that can raise triglycerides (some diuretics, steroids, beta-blockers)
- Hypothyroidism
- Chronic kidney disease
Screening Schedule
As part of a lipid panel every 4-6 years for most adults. More frequent testing for those with elevated levels, diabetes, or on lipid-lowering therapy.
What Happens During the Test
A blood sample is drawn from a vein, usually in the arm. Triglycerides are measured as part of a lipid panel along with total cholesterol, LDL, and HDL.
Duration
5 minutes for the blood draw; results usually available within 24 hours
Discomfort Level
Minimal - brief pinch from needle insertion
Risks & Side Effects
Triglyceride testing through blood draw carries very few risks.
- •Minor pain or bruising at the needle site
- •Slight bleeding
- •Rarely, lightheadedness from fasting
- •Very rare risk of infection
Normal Range
Normal: Less than 150 mg/dL. Borderline high: 150-199 mg/dL. High: 200-499 mg/dL. Very high: 500 mg/dL or above.
Note: Levels are best measured after fasting for 9-12 hours.
Source: MedlinePlus (NIH)Unit Conversion
Convert between mg/dL and mmol/L
| mg/dL | mmol/L |
|---|---|
| 50 | 0.57 |
| 100 | 1.13 |
| 150 | 1.7 |
| 200 | 2.26 |
| 300 | 3.39 |
| 400 | 4.52 |
| 500 | 5.65 |
| 750 | 8.48 |
High Values
High triglycerides are often caused by obesity, poorly controlled diabetes, hypothyroidism, excessive alcohol use, and a diet high in refined carbohydrates. They increase cardiovascular risk.[Mayo Clinic]
Low Values
Very low triglycerides (below 50 mg/dL) are uncommon and may be associated with malnutrition, hyperthyroidism, or malabsorption conditions.[Cleveland Clinic]
Test Limitations & Accuracy
Triglyceride levels can vary significantly and are affected by many factors.
- ⚠Requires fasting for accurate results - non-fasting levels can be 20-30% higher
- ⚠Levels fluctuate substantially day-to-day (up to 30% variation)
- ⚠Recent meals, especially high-fat or high-carb, significantly elevate levels
- ⚠Alcohol consumption within 24 hours can dramatically affect results
- ⚠Time of day affects levels (typically lower in morning)
- ⚠Illness, stress, or recent weight change can alter results
- ⚠Some medications affect levels
- ⚠Does not indicate the underlying cause of elevation
Alternative & Complementary Tests
Triglycerides are typically measured as part of a complete lipid assessment.
For comprehensive cardiovascular risk assessment including LDL, HDL, and total cholesterol
Calculated value that includes triglyceride-rich particles
For more accurate assessment of atherogenic particles
To evaluate for diabetes, which commonly causes elevated triglycerides
To rule out hypothyroidism as a cause of elevated triglycerides
To evaluate fatty liver disease associated with high triglycerides
Test Preparation
You should fast for 9 to 12 hours before the test. Only water is allowed.[MedlinePlus (NIH)]
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I lower my triglycerides quickly?
To lower triglycerides: limit sugar and refined carbs, reduce alcohol intake, exercise regularly, lose excess weight, eat more fiber, and include omega-3 fatty acids from fish. Medication may be needed for very high levels.
Source: Mayo ClinicWhat foods cause high triglycerides?
Foods that raise triglycerides include sugary foods and drinks, refined carbohydrates (white bread, pasta), alcohol, saturated fats, and high-calorie foods in general. Fruit juice and dried fruits can also raise levels.
Source: American Heart AssociationAre high triglycerides worse than high cholesterol?
Both are important risk factors for heart disease. High triglycerides often occur with low HDL and high LDL, making the combination particularly risky. Very high triglycerides (500+) also risk pancreatitis.
Source: Cleveland ClinicCan exercise lower triglycerides?
Yes, regular physical activity can lower triglycerides by 20-30%. Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days. Exercise also raises HDL cholesterol and has other cardiovascular benefits.
Source: Mayo ClinicReferences
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Medical Disclaimer
This information is for educational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. Always consult with a qualified healthcare provider for interpretation of test results and medical decisions.
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