Triglycerides
Disclaimer: Information on this page is for educational purposes. Consult a physician to interpret your test results. Lissa Health helps track biomarker trends but does not replace medical advice.
What This Test Measures
Triglycerides are the main blood fat form. Elevation links to insulin resistance, metabolic syndrome, and acute pancreatitis risk at very high levels (>10 mmol/L).
Diet and alcohol strongly affect results — fasting is required.
Reduction achieved through diet, exercise, weight loss, and fibrates/statins.
Normal Ranges
| Group | Reference Range |
|---|---|
| Men | <150 mg/dL (<1.7 mmol/L) |
| Women | <150 mg/dL |
| Children | <100 mg/dL |
Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and assay method.
Causes of High Levels
- Obesity and metabolic syndrome
- Diabetes
- Excess alcohol
- High-carb diet
- Hypothyroidism
- Nephrotic syndrome
Causes of Low Levels
- Malnutrition
- Hyperthyroidism
- Malabsorption
- Very low-fat diet
Test Preparation
- Strict fasting 9–12 hours
- No alcohol for 72 hours
- Avoid fatty foods beforehand
Related Biomarkers
| Biomarker | Relationship |
|---|---|
| Glucose | Insulin resistance |
| HDL Cholesterol | Metabolic syndrome |
| LDL Cholesterol | Combined dyslipidemia |
FAQ
How often should I take this test?
Annually; on therapy — every 3–6 months.
What should I do if my result is abnormal?
Level >5.6 mmol/L — urgent consult (pancreatitis risk); >10 mmol/L — hospitalization.
Last updated: June 2026