Understanding Triglycerides and Their Significance
Understand what triglycerides are, their vital role in your body's energy, and why maintaining healthy levels is crucial. Learn about the health risks of high triglycerides and how to manage them for better heart health.
Written by Dr. Vasanthasree Nair
Reviewed by Dr. Shaik Abdul Kalam MD (Physician)
Last updated on 4th Aug, 2025
Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) found in your blood. While they are essential for providing energy to your body, having high levels can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and other health problems. Understanding what triglycerides are, why they matter, and how to manage them is crucial for maintaining good health.
What Are Triglycerides?
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in your body. When you eat, your body converts any extra calories (especially from carbohydrates and fats) into triglycerides and stores them in fat cells. Later, hormones release triglycerides for energy between meals.
While triglycerides are necessary for normal body function, having too much in your blood can be harmful. High triglyceride levels (hypertriglyceridemia) often accompany other risk factors like high cholesterol, obesity, and diabetes.
Why Are Triglycerides Important?
High triglycerides can contribute to:
Hardening of the arteries (atherosclerosis), increasing the risk of heart attack and stroke.
Pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas) if levels are extremely high.
Metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions (high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess belly fat, and abnormal cholesterol) that raise heart disease risk.
What Causes High Triglycerides?
Several factors can lead to elevated triglyceride levels, including:
1. Diet
Eating too many refined carbohydrates (white bread, sugary foods, sodas).
Consuming excess alcohol.
High intake of unhealthy fats (fried foods, processed snacks).
2. Lifestyle Factors
Lack of physical activity.
Smoking.
Obesity (especially excess belly fat).
3. Medical Conditions
Diabetes (especially if poorly controlled).
Hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).
Kidney disease.
Genetic disorders affecting fat metabolism.
4. Medications
Some steroids, diuretics, and hormone therapies can raise triglycerides.
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Symptoms of High Triglycerides
Most people with high triglycerides don’t experience noticeable symptoms. However, extremely high levels (above 500 mg/dL) may cause:
Abdominal pain (due to pancreatitis).
Fatty deposits under the skin (xanthomas), appearing as yellowish bumps.
Since symptoms are rare, regular blood tests are the best way to monitor triglyceride levels.
How Are Triglycerides Measured?
A lipid panel blood test checks your:
Triglycerides
Total cholesterol
HDL (good cholesterol)
LDL (bad cholesterol)
Normal levels: Below 150 mg/dL
Borderline high: 150–199 mg/dL
High: 200–499 mg/dL
Very high: 500 mg/dL or above
Fasting for 9–12 hours before the test ensures accurate results.
How to Lower Triglycerides Naturally?
Ways to lower triglycerides naturally:
1. Eat a Heart-Healthy Diet
Reduce sugar and refined carbs – Choose whole grains, fruits, and vegetables instead of sweets and white bread.
Choose healthy fats – Include omega3rich foods (fatty fish like salmon, flaxseeds, walnuts) and avoid trans fats (found in fried and processed foods).
Limit alcohol – Even small amounts can raise triglycerides.
2. Exercise Regularly
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate activity (brisk walking, cycling, swimming) most days.
Exercise helps lower triglycerides by improving how your body processes fats and sugars.
3. Lose Excess Weight
Losing 5–10% of body weight can significantly reduce triglycerides.
4. Manage Underlying Conditions
Control diabetes, hypothyroidism, and high blood pressure with proper treatment.
5. Quit Smoking
Smoking worsens cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
When to Seek Medical Help?
If lifestyle changes aren’t enough, your doctor may prescribe medications like:
Statins (for high cholesterol and triglycerides).
Fibrates (specifically for high triglycerides).
Omega-3 fatty acid supplements (prescriptionstrength fish oil).
Consult a doctor if:
Your triglyceride levels are above 200 mg/dL.
You have a family history of heart disease or high triglycerides.
Final Thoughts
Triglycerides play an important role in your body, but keeping them in check is essential for long term health. Simple changes in diet, exercise, and lifestyle can make a big difference. If you’re concerned about your levels, a simple blood test can help assess your risk.
Take Action Today!
If you need a lipid panel test or expert advice, you can book a consultation or lab test through Apollo 24|7 for convenient and reliable healthcare support.
Stay proactive about your heart health—your future self will thank you!
Consult a Top Nutritionist
Consult a Top Nutritionist
Dr. Ramalinga Reddy
General Physician
5 Years • MBBS MD General medicine
Bengaluru
PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dt. Ila Sharma
Clinical Nutritionist
18 Years • Master in food & Nutrition
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VIPUL GREENS - SOCIETY CLINIC, Gurugram
Dr Sumanth R
General Physician
2 Years • MBBS
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PRESTIGE SHANTHINIKETAN - SOCIETY CLINIC, Bengaluru
Dr. Sasikamalam
General Practitioner
1 Years • MBBS
COIMBATORE
Apollo Sugar Clinic Coimbatore, COIMBATORE
Mrs Sneha P V
Nutritionist
10 Years • Master of science in Food and Nutrition
Bengaluru
Apollo Clinic, Sarjapur Road, Bengaluru
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