Triglycerides Lipid Subfractions

This test shows not just how much fat is in your blood, but how it’s packaged and carried - giving a better picture of your heart and metabolic health.

📋 About This Biomarker

Triglycerides Lipid Subfractions take a closer look at the different types and sizes of particles that carry triglycerides (a type of fat) in your blood. While a standard triglyceride test tells you how much fat is circulating, this advanced test shows you how those fats are packaged - whether in large, fluffy particles or smaller, denser ones. This matters because not all triglyceride particles carry the same health risks. Smaller particles, often linked to very low-density lipoproteins (VLDL), can sneak into the walls of your arteries and cause inflammation, leading to plaque build-up and increasing your risk of heart disease. On the other hand, larger particles are usually considered less harmful. Both men and women can benefit from this detailed view - especially if other blood fat levels look normal but there’s still concern about heart or metabolic health. Think of it as zooming in on your blood’s traffic system to see not just the number of cars (triglycerides), but the size and speed of each one.

🎯 Why We Test This

Testing triglyceride subfractions provides deeper insight into your cardiovascular and metabolic risk. Even if your basic cholesterol and triglyceride levels look fine, small harmful fat particles might still be lurking. This test is particularly helpful for people with diabetes, metabolic syndrome, or a family history of heart disease. It helps tailor lifestyle and treatment plans based on your specific risk profile.

⚠️ What Affects It

Several factors can shift your triglyceride subfractions. Diets high in sugars, refined carbs, and alcohol are major contributors to an increase in harmful triglyceride particles. Low physical activity, excess body fat (especially around the belly), insulin resistance, and poorly managed type 2 diabetes also play a big role. Certain medications (like steroids or birth control pills), hormonal changes, genetics, and even stress can affect these levels too. Men often have higher triglyceride levels than women, especially if there are underlying metabolic issues.

📈 How to Improve

If levels are high or close to high, the most effective changes include reducing sugar and alcohol, eating more fibre, avoiding processed foods, and getting regular exercise. Losing even a small amount of weight can significantly improve triglyceride subfractions. If your levels are low, make sure your diet includes healthy fats like nuts, seeds, olive oil, and fatty fish. Always work with a healthcare provider to understand the root cause and develop a personalised plan. Regular re-testing helps track progress and fine-tune your approach.

📊 Understanding Your Results (mmol/L)

Low (< 0.3 mmol/L)
Very low levels of triglyceride subfractions are rare but can happen due to malnutrition, fat absorption problems, or certain genetic conditions. It may also occur in people taking certain medications that aggressively lower blood fats. While not always dangerous on its own, it’s something a healthcare provider should look into, especially if symptoms like fatigue or weight loss are also present.
Optimal (0.3 - 1.7 mmol/L)
If your triglyceride subfractions are within the healthy range, it shows your body is handling fat transport well. There’s a good balance between the different types of particles, and your risk of developing heart-related issues from these fats is low. This is a great place to be - and it’s worth continuing with healthy habits to stay here.
High (> 1.7 mmol/L)
A high number of small, dense triglyceride-rich particles (especially VLDL subtypes) is a warning sign that your body is struggling to manage fats properly. These particles are more likely to cause damage to arteries and raise the risk of cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome. It suggests the need to address dietary habits, increase activity, and possibly explore medical treatment to reduce your overall health risk.
Also known as: Triglycerides Lipid Subfractions, TG Subfractions