Triglyceride:HDL

Introduction

As a Nurse Practitioner with an autonomous practice in Florida, it’s essential to educate patients about the importance of biomarkers in assessing health risks. One such biomarker is the Triglyceride:HDL ratio (Triglyceride:HDL), a critical indicator of cardiovascular disease and insulin resistance. Understanding this ratio can help assess the risk of cardiovascular disease, Dysglycemia, and Type II Diabetes.

Background on Triglyceride:HDL Ratio

The Triglyceride:HDL ratio is calculated by dividing the level of triglycerides by the level of HDL in the blood. This ratio provides valuable insight into lipid metabolism and cardiovascular health. Increased ratios are linked to higher cardiovascular risk and a greater likelihood of developing insulin resistance and Type II Diabetes. Conversely, decreased ratios are associated with a lower risk of these conditions.

Understanding the Ranges

In clinical practice, understanding the standard and optimal ranges of the Triglyceride:HDL ratio is crucial:

• Standard Range (U.S. Units): 0.00 – 2.00
  
• Standard Range (International Units): 0.00 – 0.87
  
• Optimal Range (U.S. Units): 0.50 – 1.90
  
• Optimal Range (International Units): 0.22 – 0.83

   

Maintaining a ratio within the optimal range indicates a more favorable health profile.

Clinical Implications

Low Triglyceride:HDL Ratio

• Decreased Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: A lower ratio suggests reduced risk of atherosclerotic plaque formation (Atherosclerotic Process).
  
• Decreased Risk of Insulin Resistance and Type II Diabetes: Indicates a lower likelihood of metabolic dysfunction.

   

High Triglyceride:HDL Ratio

• Increased Risk of Cardiovascular Disease: A higher ratio is a strong predictor of cardiac events.
  
• Increased Risk of Insulin Resistance and Type II Diabetes: Correlates with Metabolic Syndrome and chronic dysglycemia.

   

Interfering Factors

Certain factors can interfere with the accuracy of the Triglyceride:HDL ratio:

• Falsely Decreased Levels: Severe Liver Dysfunction or Hyperactive Thyroid may lower triglycerides.
  
• Falsely Increased Levels: Obesity, uncontrolled Dysglycemia, or high-sugar diets can elevate triglycerides.

   

Drug Associations

Drug Causes of Decreased Levels

• Statins: Lower triglyceride levels.
  
• Fibrates: Primarily reduce triglycerides.

   

Drug Causes of Increased Levels

• Beta-Blockers: May raise triglyceride levels.
  
• Thiazide Diuretics: Can elevate triglycerides.

   

The Role of Functional Medicine

In functional medicine, the Triglyceride:HDL ratio is more than a lab value; it reflects the integration of diet, lifestyle, and metabolic health. By optimizing this ratio through targeted nutrition, exercise, and supplementation, patients can reduce their risk of chronic disease and improve overall vitality.

Conclusion

In conclusion, a comprehensive evaluation by a functional medicine practitioner integrates the Triglyceride:HDL ratio into a holistic cardiometabolic care plan. By combining precise biomarker analysis with personalized dietary interventions, gut microbiome support, and advanced therapies, this approach transcends symptom management to rebuild metabolic resilience and cardiovascular health. Contact us at 904-799-2531 or schedule online, and explore our longevity medicine and IV therapy services for tailored support.

Further Reading

• Laufs, U., Parhofer, K. G., Ginsberg, H. N., & Hegele, R. A. (2020). Clinical review on triglycerides. European Heart Journal, 41(1), 99-109c. https://doi.org/10.1093/eurheartj/ehz785

• Barter, P. J., & Rye, K. A. (2013). Recent clinical trials evaluating benefit of drug therapy for HDL cholesterol modification. Current Opinion in Lipidology, 24(4), 345-352. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23736814/

• Kim, J. H., et al. (2020). Triglyceride to HDL-cholesterol ratio and the incidence risk of type 2 diabetes: A large community-based Korean cohort study. Diabetes & Metabolism Journal. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32305400/

• Low Wang, C. C., et al. (2023). The Triglyceride/High-Density Lipoprotein Cholesterol (TG/HDL-C) Ratio as a Marker for Cardiometabolic Risk: A Review. PMC. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10001260/