Blood fats that rise after meals; very high levels raise pancreatitis risk.
What it is
Triglycerides in mmol/L. Fasting samples are preferred for many panels; fasting <2.3 mmol/L is a commonly cited desirable educational band.
Triglycerides are the main fat-storage molecules circulating in chylomicrons (after meals) and VLDL (fasting). Panels often request 9–12 hour fasting. Reported in mmol/L.
Why it matters
Markedly raised triglycerides need clinical advice on diet, alcohol, diabetes control, and medicines. Pancreatitis risk rises at very high levels: urgent care if severe abdominal pain.
This guide is educational only and cannot diagnose you. Discuss results, especially anything outside your laboratory’s reference interval, or that does not match how you feel, with a GP or other appropriately qualified clinician.
How it affects the body
Triglycerides store energy in adipose tissue and circulate in chylomicrons and VLDL. Insulin resistance elevates fasting triglycerides.
Hydrolysis of triglycerides supplies fatty acids for muscle fuel. Excess VLDL remnants contribute to atherogenic risk; extreme triglycerides raise pancreatitis risk via poorly understood viscosity/inflammatory mechanisms.
For athletes
Post-race feasting and alcohol can spike triglycerides. For serial monitoring, standardise fasting and training load the day before.
A huge recovery meal or alcohol the night before fasting bloods spoils triglycerides. Standardise pre-test diet when tracking season to season.
