Triglycerides Test
Reviewed
A triglycerides test measures the amount of triglycerides in your blood. High levels may increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, and other conditions. The test is often part of a lipid profile.
Preparation and collection
You may need to fast (not eat or drink) for 9 to 12 hours before the test. Your provider will tell you if fasting is needed and give any special instructions.
Understanding this test
Use the reference interval and units printed by the laboratory that performed the test. A result outside that interval is not a diagnosis by itself, and a result inside it does not rule out every condition. Your symptoms, history, medicines, timing, and related tests can change what the result means.
- High triglycerides usually cause no symptoms, so routine testing is important.
- Results should be interpreted by your healthcare provider in the context of your overall health and risk factors.
- For children and teens, different reference ranges apply – ask your child's provider for explanation.
What to do next
If your triglycerides are high, your provider may recommend lifestyle changes such as heart-healthy eating, limiting added sugar and saturated fat, regular physical activity, weight management, stress reduction, quitting smoking, getting enough sleep, and limiting alcohol. In some cases, medication may be needed. Always discuss any major changes with your provider.