Normal tryglycerides
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Understanding Normal Triglyceride Levels: Insights from Recent Research
Normal Triglyceride Levels and Their Variations
Definition and Measurement of Normal Triglyceride Levels
Triglycerides are a type of fat found in the blood, and their levels are an important indicator of metabolic health. Normal triglyceride levels are generally considered to be below 150 mg/dL. However, recent studies suggest that levels above 100 mg/dL may still pose health risks . A study involving 263 normal subjects found that the average fasting serum triglyceride level was 70 mg/dL, with levels above 120 mg/dL indicating hypertriglyceridemia.
Age, Sex, and Obesity Influences
Triglyceride levels vary with age, sex, and body weight. Levels tend to increase with age, peaking in the forties, and then decrease. Women generally have higher triglyceride levels post-menopause compared to pre-menopause. Obesity is also positively correlated with higher triglyceride levels, while lean individuals tend to have lower levels .
Triglycerides and Health Outcomes
Coronary Artery Disease (CAD) Risk
Elevated triglyceride levels, even within the "normal" range, are associated with an increased risk of coronary artery disease (CAD). A long-term study found that triglyceride levels above 100 mg/dL were predictive of new coronary events, suggesting that the current cutpoint for elevated triglycerides (>200 mg/dL) may need to be lowered. Additionally, triglyceride levels between 100 and 149 mg/dL were linked to systemic inflammation, further supporting the need for a lower threshold in risk assessments.
Cognitive Function in the Elderly
Interestingly, higher normal triglyceride levels have been associated with better cognitive function in the oldest-old population. A study on Chinese individuals aged 80 and older found that those in the highest quartile of triglyceride levels had a significantly reduced risk of cognitive impairment compared to those in the lowest quartile. This suggests a complex relationship between triglycerides and cognitive health in advanced age.
Methodological Considerations in Triglyceride Measurement
Serum vs. Plasma Measurements
The method of measuring triglycerides can influence the results. A study comparing serum and plasma EDTA samples found no significant difference in triglyceride levels between the two methods, indicating that both are reliable for clinical assessments.
Non-Fasting Triglyceride Levels
Non-fasting triglyceride levels also provide valuable insights. A study on healthy Dutch individuals found that non-fasting triglyceride levels were higher in the evening and varied by sex, with males generally having higher levels than females. These findings help establish reference values for non-fasting triglycerides, which can be useful for identifying individuals at risk for atherosclerosis.
Conclusion
Normal triglyceride levels are influenced by various factors including age, sex, and body weight. While traditionally considered normal below 150 mg/dL, evidence suggests that levels above 100 mg/dL may still pose health risks, particularly for coronary artery disease. Additionally, higher normal triglyceride levels may be beneficial for cognitive function in the elderly. Accurate measurement methods and consideration of non-fasting levels are essential for proper assessment and risk stratification.
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