Metabolism

TyG Index

The TyG index is a validated surrogate for insulin resistance that performs comparably to HOMA-IR without requiring fasting insulin.

What it is

The TyG index is a validated surrogate for insulin resistance that performs comparably to HOMA-IR without requiring fasting insulin. It is also a strong independent predictor of non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, cardiovascular events, and all-cause mortality.

What affects your levels

Dietary excess of refined carbohydrates and saturated fats, physical inactivity, obesity, metabolic syndrome, type 2 diabetes. Genetic dyslipidaemia can elevate TG independent of metabolic health.

Signs and symptoms

Usually asymptomatic at moderate elevations. Very high values (high TG): xanthomas, eruptive skin lesions, pancreatitis risk.

Foods that help

Omega-3-rich fatty fish (salmon, mackerel, herring), leafy greens, legumes, whole oats, low-sugar fruits. Post-meal activity reduces postprandial TG spikes.

Foods to limit

Sugar, particularly fructose from juices and sweetened beverages. Alcohol markedly raises triglycerides. Refined starches and trans fats compound the effect.

Educational information only — not a diagnosis. Every Pheno result is interpreted in context and reviewed by a physician.

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