What this marker measures
Triglycerides should be measured after an 8–12 hour fast for accuracy. Non-fasting triglycerides are increasingly used in cardiovascular risk algorithms, but fasting values remain the standard for diagnosis.
High or low: what it can mean
High Triglycerides
Elevated triglycerides are often linked to diet high in refined carbohydrates and sugar, excess alcohol, physical inactivity, obesity, or poorly controlled diabetes. They are an independent marker for cardiovascular risk.
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Low Triglycerides
Very low triglycerides are generally not a concern and may simply reflect a low-fat diet or high physical activity.
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Lifestyle considerations
- •Reducing refined sugars and starches is the most effective dietary change to lower triglycerides
- •Limiting alcohol consumption can produce rapid reductions in triglyceride levels
- •Regular exercise significantly lowers triglycerides
Frequently asked questions
What is Triglycerides?
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Triglycerides are the main form of fat stored in the body. After eating, unused calories are converted into triglycerides and stored in fat cells for later energy use.
What does Triglycerides measure?
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Triglycerides should be measured after an 8–12 hour fast for accuracy. Non-fasting triglycerides are increasingly used in cardiovascular risk algorithms, but fasting values remain the standard for diagnosis.
What does high Triglycerides mean?
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Elevated triglycerides are often linked to diet high in refined carbohydrates and sugar, excess alcohol, physical inactivity, obesity, or poorly controlled diabetes. They are an independent marker for cardiovascular risk.
What does low Triglycerides mean?
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Very low triglycerides are generally not a concern and may simply reflect a low-fat diet or high physical activity.
What supports healthy Triglycerides levels?
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Reducing refined sugars and starches is the most effective dietary change to lower triglycerides. Limiting alcohol consumption can produce rapid reductions in triglyceride levels. Regular exercise significantly lowers triglycerides
Related biomarkers
Editorial note
LabTestly explains lab markers using plain-English educational content. Reference ranges may vary by laboratory and should be interpreted with a clinician.
Educational content · Editorially reviewed for clarity · Last updated
Common sources used for lab-test education
Not medical advice
This page is for general understanding only and does not replace medical advice from your clinician. Reference ranges can vary by laboratory, age, sex, pregnancy status, medications, and clinical context.