Not many people understand the connection between triglyceride levels and diabetes. Triglycerides account for 99% of the fat stored in our bodies. These fats serve as long-term energy sources for the body. Insulin moves both glucose and triglycerides from your bloodstream into your cells. High triglyceride levels may indicate that your cells are insulin resistant and that you may be at risk of type 2 diabetes, according to LiveStrong.com.

Triglyceride levels in diabetes patients are of a high concern. When insulin cannot move the triglycerides out of a person’s bloodstream it puts that person at risk of many types of complications. These include cardiovascular disease, atherosclerosis, stroke, nerve damage, and pancreatitis.

Concerning high triglyceride levels and diabetes, the American Diabetes Association (ADA) recommends keeping your triglyceride levels below 150 mg/dl. Recommended ways of doing so include:

  • Keeping control of your blood glucose levels
  • Limiting your intake of saturated fats