My triglycerides are high — what should I do?
Elevated triglycerides reflect insulin resistance, alcohol, refined-carbohydrate intake, and (rarely) familial dyslipidemia. Address the metabolic driver. Severe elevation (>500 mg/dL) raises pancreatitis risk and warrants prompt review.
Full answer
Triglycerides above 150 mg/dL track with insulin resistance; values above 500 mg/dL meaningfully raise pancreatitis risk. The workup includes fasting glucose, fasting insulin, HbA1c, TSH, ALT/AST, alcohol history, and medication review. Refined carbohydrate reduction, weight optimization, alcohol restriction, and aerobic training are first-line. Omega-3 (EPA/DHA) and fibrates are added under provider review when very high. Severe elevation is treated promptly. The metabolic pathway integrates these decisions with the broader baseline.
Educational. Not a substitute for individualized provider review.
- Methodology — Primary source · oMeds
- Reviewed by Dr. Laura Purdy, MD, MBA · Clinical Director, oMeds · Last reviewed 2026-06-03