What Are Triglycerides?

They are important to life and are the main form of fat – they are sometimes called “lipids” -- in the body. When you think of fat developing and being stored in your hips or belly, you're thinking of triglycerides.

How They’re Measured

Your doctor may give you a common test called a lipid panel. It checks for different types of cholesterol, including the levels of the "good" kind and the "bad" kind. The American Heart Association recommends that everyone 21 and older get a lipid panel at least every 5 years.

What Are Normal and High Levels?

The National Cholesterol Education Program sets guidelines for triglyceride levels:

• Normal levels: Less than 150 milligrams per deciliter

• Borderline high:150 to 199

• High: 200 to 499 -Very high: 500 or more

How to Lower Your Levels

• Moderate exercise: Try to exercise 5 or more days each week.

• Watch your weight: If you’re carrying extra pounds, losing 5% to 10% of your weight can lower triglycerides.

• Eat less bad fat: Try to lower the saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol in your diet. -Drink less alcohol

• Eat more fish or take a fish oil supplement