Optimal triglycerides level: a guide to your result
The optimal triglycerides level in the clips below is under 100 mg/dL, while most labs call anything up to 150 mg/dL normal.
The short answer
Most labs call triglycerides high only above 150. So your report can call 125 normal while it sits above the optimal ceiling.
If your result sits outside the range printed on your own report, take it to your doctor. If it sits inside that range but outside the optimal one, you can bring this page and ask.
“to the lipids I generally take a harder line on triglycerides than is typically given, so the typical reference range on triglyceride is less than 150 milligrams per deciliter — apologize, I don't know what that is in millimolar for people who are outside of the United States — I generally like to see triglycerides below 100”
“they have normal triglycerides, which are being defined as less than 150. We argue in our practice that's very high, and anything over 100 is elevated.”
What each range means
- under 100 mg/dL Optimal
- 100–150 mg/dL Normal on most reports. Above optimal“they have normal triglycerides, which are being defined as less than 150. We argue in our practice that's very high, and anything over 100 is elevated.” Dr. Sarah Hallberg · 22:06 →
- over 150 mg/dL Most labs flag this as high
What triglycerides measures
The main form of fat circulating in your blood.
They rise with recent eating, alcohol and insulin resistance. That is why the test asks you to fast.
Checked against MedlinePlus — Triglycerides Test.
Why it matters, on the record
“we know triglycerides is a poor man's biomarker of insulin resistance”
What moves your triglycerides?
This grade comes from Precis, our sister site, which checks each claim against the interviews and studies it has read. Checked October 2026.
Does cutting carbs lower triglycerides?
Precis rates this Strong consensus for.
Common questions
What is an optimal triglycerides level?
Under 100 mg/dL, from a quote on video (Dr. Peter Attia, 0:36).
What is a normal triglycerides level?
Most US labs print 0–150 mg/dL. Your report grades you against that range. It exists to catch disease, not to describe your best.
What does your triglycerides number mean?
On a typical lab range, up to 150 mg/dL is normal and over 150 is high. Your own report prints its range next to your number, and that is the one your lab uses. The optimal range on this page comes with the quote behind it.
Is triglycerides of 125 normal?
A typical lab range calls it normal. On video, the optimal ceiling is 100 mg/dL (Dr. Peter Attia, 0:36), so it sits above that line.
What does the triglycerides test measure?
The main form of fat circulating in your blood. They rise with recent eating, alcohol and insulin resistance. That is why the test asks you to fast.