Inadequate Fasting as a Cause of High Triglycerides
Probably the most common reason for high triglycerides on a cholesterol test is inadequate fasting. Triglycerides in the blood increase following a meal and can remain increased for up to 10 hours. If fasting does not occur, the person will have an artificially high triglyceride level. This is why healthcare providers do not want a person to eat anything or drink coffee for at least 12 hours prior to cholesterol testing.