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Triglycerides Blood Test: What Does Your Fat Level Mean?

Triglycerides are a key metabolic marker. Regular testing helps detect metabolic syndrome early and supports comprehensive cardiovascular risk management.

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.

Triglycerides: what this test measures

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

Triglycerides: why this value 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.

Triglycerides: when is testing worthwhile?

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

Triglycerides: symptoms of a high or low value

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.

Triglycerides: what to do about an abnormal value

Male

If Low

Low triglycerides are favourable.

If High

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

Female

If Low

Low triglycerides are favourable.

If High

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

Triglycerides: lifestyle and this value

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

Triglycerides: 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.

InsideTracker

InsideTracker

An InsideTracker blood test with 35 biomarkers: heart, hormones, metabolism, inflammation, recovery and iron status. Measured in the Netherlands.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase) Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone Total Testosterone Folate (Folic Acid) Vitamin B12 Calcium Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Potassium Progesterone Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Total Cholesterol Albumin AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Vitamin D (25-OH) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Creatine Kinase (CK) Transferrin Saturation Triglycerides Basic Blood Count
€399,-
Whoop

Whoop

A 43-biomarker comprehensive health panel inspired by WHOOP Advanced Labs — a deep look at metabolism, cardiovascular risk, hormones, liver, kidney and inflammation.

SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) LDL Cholesterol Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) Free Testosterone FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) Total Testosterone Bicarbonate Calcium Chloride Ferritin Iron (Serum) Magnesium Potassium Sodium Transferrin CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) HDL Cholesterol Total Cholesterol Albumin HOMA-IR ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Bilirubin (Total) Total Protein Urea (BUN) Creatinine Vitamin D (25-OH) eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Insulin (Fasting) Leukocyte Differential Transferrin Saturation Lipoprotein(a) Triglycerides Basic Blood Count
€499,-
Whoop

Whoop Heart Health

A 45-biomarker heart health panel inspired by the WHOOP Heart Health Panel — an advanced look at cholesterol, lipoproteins, inflammation and kidney function.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) Cystatin C Uric Acid
€629,-
Whoop

Whoop Performance Health

A 50-biomarker performance panel inspired by the WHOOP Performance Health Panel — recovery, blood production, thyroid, hormones, iron and nutrient status for people who train.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) IGF-1 (Insulin-like Growth Factor) Creatine Kinase (CK) Reticulocytes Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) Free T4 (Thyroxine) Vitamin B12 Folate (Folic Acid)
€689,-
Whoop

Whoop Metabolic Health

A 51-biomarker metabolic panel inspired by the WHOOP Metabolic Health Panel — blood sugar regulation, insulin, thyroid, liver and the mineral cofactors behind your metabolism.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) Leptin Zinc Selenium Iodine Copper Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) Free T4 (Thyroxine) GGT (Gamma-Glutamyl Transferase)
€799,-
Whoop

Whoop Women's Health

A 53-biomarker women's health panel inspired by the WHOOP Women's Health Panel — fertility, cycle and thyroid hormones plus a complete metabolic and nutrient base.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) AMH (Anti-Müllerian Hormone) Progesterone Prolactin TPO Antibodies Free T3 (Triiodothyronine) Free T4 (Thyroxine) Leptin Vitamin B12 Folate (Folic Acid) Phosphorus
€709,-
Whoop

Whoop Men's Health

A 48-biomarker men's health panel inspired by the WHOOP Men's Health Panel — testosterone, PSA and prostate health plus a complete metabolic and hormone base.

Complete Blood Count (CBC) Leukocyte Differential ALP (Alkaline Phosphatase) ALT (Alanine Aminotransferase) AST (Aspartate Aminotransferase) Albumin Total Protein Bilirubin (Total) ApoB (Apolipoprotein B) Total Cholesterol LDL Cholesterol HDL Cholesterol Triglycerides Lipoprotein(a) Urea (BUN) Creatinine eGFR (Estimated Glomerular Filtration Rate) Calcium Bicarbonate Chloride Sodium Potassium Magnesium Cortisol DHEA-S Estradiol (E2) FSH (Follicle Stimulating Hormone) LH (Luteinizing Hormone) SHBG (Sex Hormone Binding Globulin) Total Testosterone Free Testosterone TSH (Thyroid Stimulating Hormone) Glucose (Fasting) HbA1c (Glycated Hemoglobin) Insulin (Fasting) HOMA-IR CRP (C-Reactive Protein) Homocysteine Ferritin Iron (Serum) Transferrin Transferrin Saturation Vitamin D (25-OH) PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Prolactin Leptin Uric Acid Zinc
€659,-

Medical reviewer

Medical standards

Dr. Naimi oversees the medical standards behind our content and assessments.

Medical policy
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Triglycerides

€11,-