Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in the body. Your lipid profile measures them alongside cholesterol because together they help estimate your heart-disease risk.
What the numbers mean
- Normal: below 150 mg/dL
- Borderline high: 150 to 199 mg/dL
- High: 200 mg/dL and above
What raises triglycerides
Refined carbohydrates and sugar, alcohol, excess weight, an underactive thyroid and poorly controlled diabetes all push triglycerides up. They are also very sensitive to recent meals, which is why this test is usually done fasting.
The rest of the lipid panel
High triglycerides often travel with a low HDL (the protective cholesterol) and are read alongside LDL and total cholesterol. The combination matters more than any single number.
You don't have to interpret a single number alone. Upload your full lab report and Lab Lens will explain every value in plain English, or browse all our lab test guides.
This article is for general education only and is not medical advice. Reference ranges vary between laboratories — always read your result against the range on your own report and discuss it with your doctor.