Triglycerides

The normal reference range for Triglycerides is Fasting: below 1.7 mmol/L is normal, 1.7-2.3 mmol/L borderline, and above 2.3 mmol/L high. Above 10 mmol/L sharply raises the risk of acute pancreatitis. Triglycerides are very sensitive to recent food and alcohol, so a 10-12 hour fast gives the most reliable result.. Reference ranges may vary between laboratories, so always consult your healthcare provider for interpretation.

High triglycerides are linked to increased risk of heart disease and can indicate metabolic issues including insulin resistance.

High triglycerides are a hallmark of insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. The biggest drivers are excess refined carbohydrate and sugar, alcohol, being overweight, physical inactivity and type 2 diabetes. A non-fasting sample is a common reason for a falsely high reading. Other causes include hypothyroidism, kidney disease, pregnancy, certain medications (corticosteroids, oestrogen, some beta-blockers) and genetic hypertriglyceridaemia.

Low triglycerides are generally not a concern. Very low levels can occur with a very low-fat diet, an overactive thyroid, malnutrition or malabsorption, and rare genetic conditions, where the focus is on the underlying cause rather than the triglyceride number itself.

Measured on a fasting lipid panel (10-12 hours without food, water and black coffee allowed). Screened every 5 years in healthy adults, and more often when raised or when managing diabetes or metabolic syndrome. After a high result, lifestyle changes are typically reassessed at 6-12 weeks.