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TG/HDL Ratio Calculator

Calculate your TG/HDL ratio — identifies insulin resistance with 79% accuracy, even when cholesterol looks "normal"

Metabolic Relevance
TG/HDL ratio reflects the balance between triglycerides and "good" cholesterol. A high ratio indicates small, dense LDL particles and insulin resistance — even when total cholesterol is normal.

Recommended testing frequency:
Every 3-6 months when monitoring lifestyle changes, annually once stable

Did you know?

The McLaughlin study (2003) found that TG/HDL ratio ≥3.0 identifies insulin resistance with 79% accuracy — even when traditional cholesterol numbers look "normal".

TG/HDL ratio can improve quickly with carbohydrate reduction and regular exercise — often within 2-4 weeks of dietary changes.

Want to understand your result better?

Learn about interpretation, what affects your score, and evidence-based strategies to improve it.

Read the full guide

Evidence-Based

This calculator is based on peer-reviewed research validated across thousands of clinical studies.

View scientific references(4)

Medical Disclaimer

This calculator is for educational and informational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always consult your physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding your health.

Why Optimal Thresholds Differ?

🏥

Standard Medical

Traditional lab limits (TG/HDL < 3.5)

⚠️ Only flags severe cases, misses "skinny fat"

🔬

Research Consensus

Research-based threshold (TG/HDL < 2.0)

McLaughlin study: 79% sensitivity for IR

Metabolic Optimization

Optimal metabolic target (TG/HDL < 1.5)

🔬 Indicates large, "fluffy" LDL particles