National Physical Therapy Examination (NPTE) Practice Exam

Which triglyceride level indicates a low risk for developing metabolic syndrome?

1. 200 mg/dL

2. 150 mg/dL

3. 135 mg/dL

4. 100 mg/dL

The correct answer is: 135 mg/dL

A triglyceride level of 135 mg/dL is indeed indicative of a lower risk for developing metabolic syndrome. In general, a triglyceride level below 150 mg/dL is considered normal and does not typically signal the presence of metabolic syndrome. Metabolic syndrome is characterized by a cluster of conditions, including increased blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels, which can increase the risk of heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. Levels of triglycerides above 150 mg/dL may start to indicate a higher risk for these conditions. Therefore, the value of 135 mg/dL falls within a healthy range, suggesting that the individual is at a lower risk for metabolic syndrome. The other values provided, especially those above 135 mg/dL, approach or exceed the threshold that may correlate with an increased risk. Hence, choosing the triglyceride level of 135 mg/dL effectively demonstrates an understanding of the metabolic syndrome risk factors and normal lipid ranges.