What are Triglycerides in a Blood Test?
Triglycerides are a type of fat (known as lipids) that are found in your blood. As their name implies, they are composed of three fatty-acid molecules joined to a glycerol backbone. Triglycerides are one of the most common blood tests used in routine health check-ups, as they provide important insight into your overall health and risk of developing heart disease.
What do Triglycerides Measure?
The main purpose of testing for triglycerides is to assess your risk of heart disease and stroke. In general, the higher your triglyceride level, the higher your risk of developing these conditions. Triglyceride levels are also used to measure the body’s ability to process fats, including the breakdown and storage of fats within the body.
Why are Triglycerides Important?
Triglycerides are important for several reasons. They help to provide you with energy, transport fat-soluble vitamins through your body, and store extra energy as fat. Additionally, they are also necessary for the production of cholesterol and hormones.
Triglycerides can be controlled through lifestyle modifications such as exercising more, eating a healthy diet, and limiting alcohol consumption. High triglycerides are often associated with diseases such as diabetes and kidney disease. In some cases, medications may be necessary to reduce triglyceride levels.
How are Triglycerides Checked?
Triglycerides are typically checked through a simple blood test. You should discuss your results with your doctor to see if further testing or lifestyle changes are needed. Normal levels are usually below 150 milligrams per deciliter (mg/dl). However, this can vary depending on your age, lifestyle, and overall health.
Conclusion
Triglycerides are an important component of your overall health and are a comprehensive measure of your risk of developing heart disease and stroke. If you are found to have high levels of triglycerides, it is important to speak to your doctor to discuss changes to your lifestyle and diet to help you lower your risk.