Definition: Triglycerides are the form in which most fat is stored in the body. Body fat is almost entirely made up of triglycerides, and fats are mostly transported in the blood in this form as well. Triglycerides can come from fat we eat, or fat which is made in the body from carbohydrates. Chemically, the triglyceride molecules consist of fatty acids joined to a glycerol molecule.
Too many triglycerides in the blood is called hypertriglyceridemia, which is a risk factor for cardiovascular disease (heart disease). People on low carb diets rarely have triglycerides above normal (150 mg/dL). This is one of the most reliable results of following a low carb way of eating.
Pronunciation: try GLI ser idez
Also Known As: triacylglycerol; triacylglyceride
Common Misspellings: tryglicerides, triglicerides, triglyserides
Examples: Too much fructose in the diet tends to increase blood triglycerides.
