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Cardiovascular

Triglycerides Blood Test: What Does Your Fat Level Mean?

Triglycerides can be influenced by hormonal factors and may change during menopause. Monitoring supports metabolic and cardiovascular health awareness for women.

Doctor's Assessment Included

When is this value abnormal?

Non-fasting sample

Decision limits per result, in mmol/l
Result Value (mmol/l)
Normal < 2
Borderline 2–5
Elevated 5–10
Markedly elevated ≥ 10

Fasting sample

Decision limits per result, in mmol/l
Result Value (mmol/l)
Normal < 1,7
Borderline 1,7–10
Markedly elevated ≥ 10

Deze afkapwaarden gelden voor niet-nuchter afgenomen bloed, zoals wij het afnemen (NHG-Standaard CVRM). Triglyceriden zijn in Nederland geen behandeldoel: de NHG stelt alleen een streefwaarde voor LDL-cholesterol. Een niet-nuchtere waarde boven 5 mmol/l wordt volgens de NHG nuchter herhaald. De NVKC hanteert 11,3 mmol/l als grens voor pancreatitisrisico, de NHG 10 mmol/l.

Source: Nederlands Huisartsen Genootschap Reference population: Nederlandse huisartsenpopulatie (NHG-Standaard CVRM, tabel 22)

Reference ranges may vary between laboratories. When you order a test, a BIG-registered doctor assesses your personal results in context. For treatment decisions, discuss your results with your GP.

What It Measures

This test measures the level of triglycerides in your blood after fasting. Levels reflect recent dietary intake, alcohol consumption, and metabolic function.

Why It Matters

Elevated triglycerides may contribute to atherosclerosis and are a component of metabolic syndrome. They are often elevated alongside insulin resistance. Consult your healthcare provider.

When to Test

Triglycerides are part of a standard fasting lipid panel. Testing is recommended during routine cardiovascular screening.

Symptoms

Low Levels

Very low triglycerides are uncommon but may indicate malnutrition or malabsorption. Discuss very low levels with your healthcare provider.

High Levels

High triglycerides usually cause no symptoms unless extremely elevated, which can cause pancreatitis. Chronically elevated levels increase cardiovascular risk over time.

Recommendations

Female

If Low

Low triglycerides are favourable.

If High

Elevated triglycerides increase cardiovascular risk. Limit sugar, alcohol, and refined carbohydrates.

Lifestyle Tips

Limit sugar and refined carbohydrates, reduce alcohol intake, exercise regularly, and maintain a healthy weight. These changes can significantly reduce triglyceride levels.

Frequently Asked Questions

What causes high triglycerides?
Common causes include excessive sugar and carbohydrate intake, alcohol, obesity, insulin resistance, and certain medications. Your healthcare provider can identify contributing factors.
Do I need to fast for triglyceride testing?
Yes, fasting for at least 8-12 hours is recommended for accurate triglyceride measurement, as levels rise significantly after meals.
Can I lower triglycerides without medication?
Many people can significantly reduce triglycerides through dietary changes, exercise, and weight loss. Consult your healthcare provider for a personalised approach.

Test Products

This marker is included in the following test panels.

Triglycerides

€11,-