This test measures the amount of triglycerides in blood. It is typically included as a part of the lipid panel which also checks total cholesterol, HDL, VLDL and LDL levels to help determine the risk of developing heart disease. It is generally seen that people with high triglycerides often have a high total cholesterol level, including a high LDL (bad) level and a low HDL (good) level. Triglycerides are a storage form of lipid found in blood. High levels of triglyceride are considered as a risk factor for ischemic heart disease. Commonly seen in cases of diabetes, pancreatitis, hyperthyroidism and hypoproteinemias. Elevated levels of triglycerides are mainly due to obesity, physical inactivity; cigarette smoking, excess alcohol consumption and a diet very high in carbohydrates. Hence it is generally seen that high triglycerides are mainly a lifestyle-related risk factor.