Triglycerides
The main form of fat circulating in blood, measured fasting in mg/dL. Optimal range: Normal below 150 mg/dL; optimal fasting below 100 mg/dL.
What it measures
The main form of fat circulating in blood, measured fasting in mg/dL. Rises with excess calorie, carbohydrate, and alcohol intake.
Why it matters
Elevated triglycerides mark insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome and remain an independent predictor of cardiovascular risk alongside LDL. They respond quickly to lifestyle change.
Optimal ranges
Sourced targets, not just lab reference ranges. Lab ranges describe the population; these describe where the evidence says you want to be.
| Range | Context |
|---|---|
| Normal below 150 mg/dL; optimal fasting below 100 mg/dL | AHA scientific statement on triglycerides (Circulation, 2011): optimal fasting triglycerides defined as below 100 mg/dL. |
How to improve it
- 1
Cut added sugars and refined carbs, especially fructose
- 2
Limit alcohol
- 3
Aerobic exercise and weight loss of 5-10%
- 4
Increase omega-3 intake from marine sources
Connected to
Goals
Longevity Lab Report
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Educational information, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor before acting on any biomarker result.