Triglycerides

Triglycerides are a type of fat that circulates in your blood and is stored in your fat cells. They are the most common type of fat in your body and play an important role in providing energy to your muscles and other organs.

When you eat, your body converts any excess calories into triglycerides, which are stored in your fat cells. When you need energy, your body releases triglycerides from your fat cells and breaks them down into fatty acids and glycerol, which can be used as fuel.

However, having high levels of triglycerides in your blood can increase your risk of developing heart disease, particularly if your levels are combined with high levels of LDL cholesterol and low levels of HDL cholesterol.

Several factors can contribute to high triglyceride levels, including a diet high in carbohydrates, obesity, physical inactivity, smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, certain medications, and some medical conditions such as diabetes and kidney disease.