Ideal triglyceride level
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Ideal Triglyceride Levels: Insights from Recent Research
Triglyceride Levels and Coronary Artery Disease Risk
Research has consistently shown that triglyceride (TG) levels are a significant risk factor for coronary artery disease (CAD). A meta-analysis of various epidemiologic studies has confirmed that TG levels below 200 mg/dL are associated with elevated risk, suggesting that a more desirable TG level is below 100 mg/dL . This is supported by dietary studies of hunter-gatherer populations, which indicate that a TG level under 100 mg/dL is optimal for reducing CAD risk .
Optimal Triglyceride Levels for LDL-C Estimation
In Korean adults, the Friedewald formula for estimating low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-C) is accurate when TG levels are between 36 and 298 mg/dL . This range ensures minimal error in LDL-C calculations, which is crucial for accurate cardiovascular risk assessment and management .
Postprandial Triglyceride Levels
A study on Chinese subjects determined that a fasting TG level of 1.2 mmol/L (approximately 106 mg/dL) is optimal, and the corresponding postprandial TG cut-off value is 1.56 mmol/L (approximately 138 mg/dL) . This finding is significant for evaluating TG levels in both fasting and postprandial states, providing a comprehensive approach to TG management .
Triglyceride Levels and Systemic Inflammation
Observational data suggest that TG levels above 100 mg/dL are associated with systemic inflammation, as indicated by elevated C-reactive protein (CRP) levels . This association underscores the importance of maintaining TG levels below 100 mg/dL to minimize inflammation and reduce the risk of coronary heart disease (CHD) .
Triglyceride Lowering and Cardiovascular Risk
While lowering TG levels with medications like pemafibrate can reduce TG, very-low-density lipoprotein (VLDL) cholesterol, and remnant cholesterol, it does not necessarily lower the incidence of cardiovascular events . This suggests that while TG management is important, it should be part of a broader strategy that includes other lipid parameters and lifestyle modifications .
Clinical and Economic Benefits of Lower Triglyceride Levels
Patients with severe hypertriglyceridemia who reduced their TG levels to below 500 mg/dL experienced fewer clinical events such as pancreatitis and cardiovascular incidents, along with lower healthcare costs . This highlights the clinical and economic benefits of maintaining lower TG levels .
Triglyceride Levels and Endothelial Function
Lower TG levels are associated with better endothelial function, which is crucial for cardiovascular health. Subjects with TG levels below 50 mg/dL exhibited significantly better flow-mediated vasodilation (FMD) compared to those with higher TG levels . This finding supports the notion that extremely low TG levels are beneficial for vascular health .
Conclusion
The ideal triglyceride level for minimizing cardiovascular risk and systemic inflammation appears to be below 100 mg/dL. This level is associated with better endothelial function, fewer clinical events, and lower healthcare costs. While medications can help lower TG levels, a comprehensive approach that includes lifestyle changes is essential for optimal cardiovascular health.
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