Triglyceride / HDL Ratio

Routine annual

also tg:hdl

What it isTriglycerides divided by HDL — a back-of-the-envelope ratio that doubles as a strong proxy for insulin resistance and small dense LDL.

DoesCaptures the metabolic-syndrome lipid pattern in one number.

GoodA low ratio signals insulin sensitivity, large buoyant LDL, and low cardiovascular risk.

BadA high ratio reflects insulin resistance, fatty liver, small dense LDL, and elevated cardiovascular risk — often before glucose or A1c move.

Standard

<3.0.

Optimal

0.5–1.2 (lower is good)

Modifiers

Rises with refined carbs, alcohol, weight gain.

How to optimize

Lifestyle: Zone 2 cardio, resistance training, weight loss, cut alcohol.
Diet: Cut sugar, refined grains, alcohol; raise omega-3 intake; Mediterranean or low-carb patterns drop this fast.
Supplements: Omega-3 EPA+DHA (2–4g/day), berberine (500mg 3×/day).
Peptides: GLP-1 agonists.
Drugs: Statins, fibrates, GLP-1 agonists, icosapent ethyl.

within Cholesterol & Lipids