What are normal triglyceride levels, and what does high triglyceride levels mean?
Elevated triglycerides place an individual at risk for atherosclerosis. Triglyceride and cholesterol levels are measured in the blood to provide a method of screening for this risk. • Normal triglyceride levels in the blood are less than 150mg per deciliter (mg/dL). • Borderline levels are between 150-200 mg/dL. • High levels of triglycerides (greater than 200 mg/dl) are associated with a increased risk of atherosclerosis and therefore coronary artery disease and stroke. • Extremely high triglyceride levels (greater than 500mg/dl) may cause pancreatitis (inflammation of the pancreas). How can I lower my triglyceride levels? Returning triglycerides to normal will decrease the risk of heart attack and stroke. Depending on the level, treatment may include dietary modification, medications, or both. A health care practitioner is an important resource to help a patient keep both cholesterol and triglyceride levels within normal limits. The following recommendations from Betty Kovacs, MS, RD
