A high blood level of triglycerides -- the most common type of fat found in food -- is a strong risk factor for heart attack among middle-aged and elderly men, independent of other factors such as total cholesterol levels.

The authors conclude that blood triglyceride level was a stronger risk factor than total cholesterol and that such a test of blood triglyceride level taken after a patient had fasted should be included in risk factor profiles.

The current evidence makes a compelling argument that patients who are having their risk of heart disease evaluated should have a triglyceride test.

Circulation March 24, 1998;97:1027-1028, 1029-1036

Dr. Mercola's Comment:

This test is typically done when your cholesterol level is taken. It is important to note that this test should be done after a ten hour fast. One can drink water but no food should be consumed. A ideal level is 150, with a range from 100 to 200. It is important to note that levels below 100 are also abnormal and can indicate a problem with to many carbohydrates also.

There is NO question in my mind that high triglycerides are clearly related to high insulin levels.

I have found that this is one of the easiest problems to correct without drugs. I have seen levels of over 1,000 drop to normal within weeks. In fact, I have never seen a person who failed to normalize their triglyceride levels by applying the low carbohydrate approach.

Basically this involves restricting or eliminating nearly all grains and fruits. No bread, pasta, rice, potatoes, corn, bagels, cereals, or crackers. Heller's The Carbohydrate Addict's Lifespan Program works nicely if one does not include the reward meal they suggest.