A triglyceride is a type of fat found in food and in the body. It consists of three fatty acids attached to a glycerol molecule, which acts as a backbone for the compound. Triglycerides are an important source of energy for the body, providing more than 90% of the calories consumed through food. They also play a role in cell membrane structure and function, hormone synthesis, and other metabolic processes. High levels of triglycerides in the blood can be a risk factor for heart disease and other health problems.