Triglycerides

Triglycerides are the main storage form of dietary and endogenous fat, transported in the blood by triglyceride-rich lipoproteins, mainly VLDL, chylomicrons, IDL, and their remnants. Fasting triglyceride levels rise with insulin resistance, excess refined carbohydrates, alcohol intake, and metabolic syndrome. Elevated values reflect higher concentrations of triglyceride-rich remnant lipoproteins, and remnant cholesterol carried by these particles is causally linked to atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease (Mendelian randomization). Lower fasting triglycerides are associated with better insulin sensitivity and reduced cardiovascular risk.