Triglyceride

Triglycerides are a type of fat (lipid) found in your blood. When you eat, your body converts any calories it doesn't need to use right away into triglycerides. The triglycerides are stored in your fat cells. Later, hormones release triglycerides for energy between meals.

Structure

Triglycerides are derived from glycerol and three fatty acids. They are made by the body from the food we eat and are also found in the food we eat.

Function

Triglycerides provide your body with energy, but high levels of triglycerides can increase the risk of heart disease.

Measurement

Triglyceride levels are usually measured in the blood as part of a lipid profile or lipid panel. The results are given in milligrams per deciliter (mg/dL).

Health implications

High levels of triglycerides in the bloodstream have been linked to atherosclerosis and, by extension, the risk of heart disease and stroke. However, it is unclear if triglycerides themselves are a source of these diseases, or if the high levels are a sign of other problems.

See also

• Lipid profile
• Heart disease
• Stroke
• Atherosclerosis

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