How to Check Triglyceride Levels
Measuring triglyceride levels through a blood test is a reliable method to assess various essential factors related to health. To obtain the most accurate results, doctors advise patients to fast for nine to twelve hours before undergoing the test. Triglycerides are measured in milligrams per deciliter of blood. A normal triglyceride level is classified as below 150 mg per deciliter of blood, while borderline levels range from 150 to 199 mg per deciliter. Triglyceride levels exceeding 200 mg per deciliter are considered high.
The Role of Triglycerides in Influencing Health
Triglycerides play a crucial role in providing energy for the human body. However, it is important to maintain a balanced intake of dietary fat and carbohydrates. When excessive calories, particularly from refined carbohydrates and sugar, are consumed, they can lead to an unhealthy increase in triglyceride levels. These surplus carbohydrates are stored as triglycerides within fat cells. Elevated levels of triglycerides in the bloodstream can result in a condition known as hypertriglyceridemia, which is often associated with the development of coronary heart disease.