Understanding Triglycerides
Triglycerides are a type of fat found in your blood. After eating, any extra calories your body doesn’t need immediately are converted into triglycerides and stored in fat cells. Between meals, hormones release these triglycerides to supply energy.
What Triglycerides Measure
Triglyceride levels, reported in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL), reflect how efficiently your body converts and stores unused calories. They are part of the standard lipid panel that also includes HDL and LDL cholesterol.
Understanding Direction
In population studies, lower triglyceride levels are generally associated with more balanced lipid metabolism. Research from the American Heart Association shows that people with lower triglycerides and higher HDL levels tend to have a lower risk of cardiovascular events. However, genetics, diet, and overall metabolic health all play a role, so trends over time are more meaningful than a single result.
Why Trends Matter
Tracking triglycerides over time helps reveal whether your metabolic patterns are stable or shifting. MyLabInsight visualizes your readings with a shaded typical range and consistency score so you can see your usual variation clearly and objectively.
Typical Reference Ranges (Adults)
| Classification | mg/dL* |
|---|---|
| Normal | < 150 |
| Borderline High | 150–199 |
| High | 200–499 |
| Very High | ≥ 500 |
*Ranges shown for educational reference only (AHA 2023 Guidelines).
What Affects Triglyceride Levels
- Total calorie and added sugar intake
- Alcohol consumption
- Weight changes
- Exercise frequency
- Genetics and certain medications
How It’s Commonly Tested
Triglycerides are part of a standard lipid panel performed by most U.S. labs and home wellness kits. They are measured after fasting or in some cases non-fasting, depending on the testing method. Values are interpreted alongside HDL, LDL, and total cholesterol.
Educational Takeaway
Triglycerides provide insight into how your body stores and uses energy. Lower or stable levels within reference ranges are generally associated with balanced metabolism, but context matters. Observing patterns over time gives the clearest picture of your lipid health.
References
- American Heart Association. 2023 Cholesterol Management Guidelines. Circulation. 2023;147:e21–e101.
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). High Blood Triglycerides: What You Need to Know. https://www.cdc.gov/cholesterol/. Accessed 2025.
- National Institutes of Health, National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI). Triglycerides and Heart Health. https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/. Accessed 2025.
*This article is for educational use only and does not provide medical advice. MyLabInsight is not a diagnostic tool and does not replace professional care.*