Triglycerides
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in the blood and one of the body’s main ways of storing and moving energy.
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in the blood and one of the body’s main ways of storing and moving energy. They come from food and are also made by the liver from extra calories, especially from sugar and alcohol. The level changes a lot after a meal, so it is best measured fasting. Retesting shows how it changes over time.
A meal shortly before the test, sugar and refined carbohydrates, alcohol, little physical activity and extra weight around the waist tend to raise triglycerides. Regular exercise, weight loss and fatty fish tend to lower them. Genes and some medicines also play a part.
Foods that help
Fatty fish such as salmon, mackerel and herring, vegetables, legumes, whole grains, nuts and olive oil. Regular movement, including walks after meals.
Foods to limit
Sugar, sweet drinks and juice, white bread and pastries, alcohol, and large late meals.
Track it through the year
One value is a snapshot. Following it up shows whether what you changed is working.
Related markers
Educational information only — not a diagnosis. Every result is checked against safe limits, and anything critical is escalated for follow-up.
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