Interpret Your Triglycerides Results
Enter your TG value below and get an instant, free AI interpretation — a plain-English explanation checked against WHO/IFCC reference ranges.
Medical Disclaimer
This AI-generated interpretation is for educational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Results may vary based on individual health factors not captured here.
Always consult a qualified healthcare professional before making any health decisions. Read full disclaimer →
Triglycerides Normal Ranges
Triglycerides are the main form of fat stored in the body and are a major source of energy.
| Age Group | Reference Range | Unit | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Adults (18–64) | 0 – 150 | mg/dL | Normal (fasting) |
| Adults (18–64) | 150 – 199 | mg/dL | Borderline high |
| Adults (18–64) | 200 – 499 | mg/dL | High |
| Adults (18–64) | 500 – 9999 | mg/dL | Very high — pancreatitis risk |
Also reported in: mmol/L.
Critical (Panic) Values
Critical High: > 1000 mg/dL. Values outside these limits require immediate clinical attention.
Why Doctors Order the Triglycerides Test
Severely elevated triglycerides (>1000 mg/dL) cause acute pancreatitis — a medical emergency. Moderate hypertriglyceridemia (200–499 mg/dL) contributes to residual cardiovascular risk and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.
How to Enter Your TG Result
Triglycerides can be reported in mg/dL or mmol/L. Choose the unit printed next to your result on the lab report so it is compared with the matching reference range.
What a Low or High TG Can Be Associated With
Below the reference range
- Malnutrition
- Low-fat or low-carbohydrate diet
- Malabsorption (celiac disease, inflammatory bowel disease)
- Hyperthyroidism
Above the reference range
- Diabetes mellitus (insulin resistance increases VLDL secretion)
- Obesity and metabolic syndrome
- Alcohol use
- High carbohydrate and sugar diet (especially fructose)
- Hypothyroidism
This interpreter flags a result at or above 1,000 mg/dL as a critical value. Results that extreme are uncommon — contact your doctor promptly, and seek urgent medical care if you feel unwell.
These are common associations, not a diagnosis. A single result is read alongside your symptoms, history and other tests — discuss it with your doctor.
What Can Change Your TG Result
Before you read too much into a result, consider whether any of these applied:
- Non-fasting state (most important — dramatically raises triglycerides)
- Alcohol (raises triglycerides markedly)
- Lipemic samples (very high triglycerides cause a white, milky appearance of blood)
- Estrogen therapy (raises triglycerides)
Preparing for the test: Fasting for 9–12 hours is essential — triglycerides rise dramatically after eating (non-fasting values can be 3× higher). Avoid alcohol for at least 24 hours before testing.
Symptoms That Often Prompt TG Testing
- Usually asymptomatic unless severe
- Eruptive xanthomas (when >1000 mg/dL)
- Acute pancreatitis: severe abdominal pain, nausea, vomiting
- Lipemia retinalis (cream-colored retinal vessels visible on fundoscopy)
Want the full clinical guide to Triglycerides?
Reference ranges, causes, symptoms, preparation, and FAQs.