Is it bad to have low triglycerides?
While high triglycerides are a known health risk, very low levels (under 40 mg/dL) can indicate malnutrition, hyperthyroidism, or genetic conditions. Most people with moderately low triglycerides (40-60 mg/dL) have no health issues, but monitoring is important.
Understanding Triglycerides and Their Role in Your Body
Triglycerides are the most common type of fat in your body, serving as a crucial energy source and playing vital roles in various bodily functions. When you eat, your body converts calories it doesn't immediately need into triglycerides, which are then stored in fat cells and released between meals when your body needs energy.
While much attention is given to high triglyceride levels and their association with heart disease, metabolic syndrome, and pancreatitis, the question of whether low triglycerides can be problematic often goes unaddressed. Understanding both ends of the triglyceride spectrum is essential for comprehensive health management.
What Are Considered Low Triglyceride Levels?
Normal triglyceride levels typically fall below 150 mg/dL, with optimal levels considered to be under 100 mg/dL. However, when triglyceride levels drop below certain thresholds, they may be considered abnormally low:
- Below 60 mg/dL: Moderately low
- Below 40 mg/dL: Very low
- Below 35 mg/dL: Extremely low (rare)
It's important to note that there isn't universal consensus on what constitutes 'too low' for triglycerides, as the health implications can vary significantly based on the underlying cause and individual circumstances. Regular monitoring through comprehensive lipid panels can help track your levels over time.
Common Causes of Low Triglycerides
Dietary Factors
One of the most common causes of low triglycerides is dietary restriction or malnutrition. This can occur due to:
- Very low-fat diets
- Extreme calorie restriction
- Eating disorders such as anorexia nervosa
- Malabsorption disorders affecting fat absorption
- Following extremely restrictive diets without proper nutritional guidance
Medical Conditions
Several medical conditions can lead to abnormally low triglyceride levels:
- Hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid)
- Malabsorption syndromes (celiac disease, Crohn's disease)
- Liver disease affecting lipid metabolism
- Certain genetic conditions like abetalipoproteinemia
- Some autoimmune conditions
Medications and Supplements
Certain medications and supplements can lower triglyceride levels, sometimes to below-normal ranges:
- High-dose omega-3 fatty acid supplements
- Fibrate medications (used to treat high triglycerides)
- Niacin (vitamin B3) in therapeutic doses
- Some cholesterol-lowering medications
- Certain antibiotics and antifungal medications
Health Implications of Low Triglycerides
For most people, moderately low triglycerides (40-60 mg/dL) are not a cause for concern and may even be associated with better cardiovascular health. However, very low levels can sometimes indicate underlying health issues that need attention.
Potential Benefits
Research suggests that lower triglyceride levels within the normal range are generally associated with:
- Reduced risk of heart disease
- Lower risk of metabolic syndrome
- Better insulin sensitivity
- Reduced inflammation markers
- Lower risk of pancreatitis
Potential Concerns
When triglycerides drop too low, particularly below 40 mg/dL, potential concerns include:
- Nutritional deficiencies, especially fat-soluble vitamins (A, D, E, K)
- Hormonal imbalances affecting reproductive health
- Compromised immune function
- Difficulty maintaining body temperature
- Potential cognitive effects due to inadequate fat intake
Symptoms Associated with Low Triglycerides
Low triglycerides themselves rarely cause symptoms directly. Instead, symptoms typically arise from the underlying condition causing the low levels. Common symptoms that may accompany very low triglycerides include:
- Unexplained weight loss
- Chronic fatigue or weakness
- Difficulty concentrating or brain fog
- Dry skin and hair
- Irregular menstrual cycles in women
- Digestive issues or chronic diarrhea
- Feeling cold frequently
If you're experiencing these symptoms along with low triglyceride levels, it's important to work with a healthcare provider to identify and address the root cause.
When to See a Healthcare Provider
You should consult with a healthcare provider if:
- Your triglycerides are consistently below 40 mg/dL
- You have symptoms suggesting malnutrition or malabsorption
- You're experiencing unexplained weight loss
- You have a family history of lipid disorders
- You're taking medications that affect lipid levels
- You follow a very restrictive diet
Your healthcare provider may recommend additional testing to identify underlying causes, including thyroid function tests, liver panels, and nutritional assessments.
Managing and Monitoring Low Triglycerides
Dietary Adjustments
If low triglycerides are due to inadequate dietary fat intake, consider:
- Including healthy fats from sources like avocados, nuts, seeds, and olive oil
- Ensuring adequate caloric intake to meet your body's needs
- Working with a registered dietitian if following a restrictive diet
- Supplementing with fat-soluble vitamins if recommended by your provider
Regular Monitoring
Regular blood testing can help track your triglyceride levels alongside other important health markers. Comprehensive metabolic panels that include lipid profiles, thyroid function, and other biomarkers provide a complete picture of your health status.
Addressing Underlying Conditions
Treatment should focus on addressing any underlying conditions causing low triglycerides:
- Managing hyperthyroidism with appropriate medications
- Treating malabsorption disorders
- Adjusting medications that may be lowering triglycerides excessively
- Addressing any eating disorders with professional support
The Bottom Line on Low Triglycerides
While high triglycerides are a well-established cardiovascular risk factor, low triglycerides are generally not harmful for most people. In fact, triglyceride levels on the lower end of the normal range (50-100 mg/dL) are often associated with better metabolic health. However, very low levels (below 40 mg/dL) warrant investigation, as they may indicate malnutrition, malabsorption, or other underlying health conditions.
The key is understanding your individual health context. If you have consistently low triglycerides but feel healthy, eat a balanced diet, and have no concerning symptoms, there's likely no cause for worry. However, if low triglycerides are accompanied by symptoms or result from extreme dietary restriction, working with a healthcare provider to address the underlying cause is important for your overall health and wellbeing.
References
- Nordestgaard, B. G. (2016). Triglyceride-rich lipoproteins and atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease: new insights from epidemiology, genetics, and biology. Circulation Research, 118(4), 547-563.[PubMed][DOI]
- Miller, M., Stone, N. J., Ballantyne, C., Bittner, V., Criqui, M. H., Ginsberg, H. N., ... & Pennathur, S. (2011). Triglycerides and cardiovascular disease: a scientific statement from the American Heart Association. Circulation, 123(20), 2292-2333.[PubMed][DOI]
- Hegele, R. A., Ginsberg, H. N., Chapman, M. J., Nordestgaard, B. G., Kuivenhoven, J. A., Averna, M., ... & Wiklund, O. (2014). The polygenic nature of hypertriglyceridaemia: implications for definition, diagnosis, and management. The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology, 2(8), 655-666.[PubMed][DOI]
- Berglund, L., Brunzell, J. D., Goldberg, A. C., Goldberg, I. J., Sacks, F., Murad, M. H., & Stalenhoef, A. F. (2012). Evaluation and treatment of hypertriglyceridemia: an Endocrine Society clinical practice guideline. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 97(9), 2969-2989.[PubMed][DOI]
- Langsted, A., & Nordestgaard, B. G. (2019). Nonfasting versus fasting lipid profile for cardiovascular risk prediction. Pathology, 51(2), 131-141.[PubMed][DOI]
- Ramasamy, I. (2018). Update on the molecular biology of dyslipidemias. Clinica Chimica Acta, 454, 143-185.[PubMed][DOI]
Frequently Asked Questions
How can I test my triglycerides at home?
You can test your triglycerides at home with SiPhox Health's Heart & Metabolic Program. This CLIA-certified program includes triglyceride testing along with comprehensive cardiovascular and metabolic biomarkers, providing lab-quality results from the comfort of your home.
What is the ideal triglyceride level?
The ideal triglyceride level is generally considered to be below 100 mg/dL, with normal levels being under 150 mg/dL. Levels between 50-100 mg/dL are typically optimal for most people. Very low levels below 40 mg/dL may warrant investigation for underlying causes.
Can diet alone cause low triglycerides?
Yes, diet can significantly impact triglyceride levels. Very low-fat diets, extreme calorie restriction, or malnutrition can cause triglycerides to drop below normal ranges. A balanced diet with healthy fats is important for maintaining appropriate triglyceride levels.
How often should I check my triglyceride levels?
For most adults, checking triglycerides annually as part of a lipid panel is sufficient. However, if you have abnormal levels, are on medications affecting lipids, or have risk factors for heart disease, your healthcare provider may recommend testing every 3-6 months.
Are low triglycerides linked to any serious health conditions?
While moderately low triglycerides are generally not concerning, very low levels can be associated with hyperthyroidism, malabsorption disorders, liver disease, or certain genetic conditions. They may also indicate inadequate nutrition or eating disorders.
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