Triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index

TyG index complements HOMA-IR by capturing insulin resistance through lipid-glucose interactions, sometimes detecting metabolic dysfunction that HOMA-IR might miss. It's particularly sensitive to hepatic insulin resistance and atherogenic dyslipidemia. When used together with HOMA-IR, these indices provide a comprehensive view of metabolic health; HOMA-IR reflects pancreatic insulin output and peripheral sensitivity, while TyG reveals lipid-related metabolic stress. This dual approach improves detection of early insulin resistance, cardiovascular risk, and fatty liver disease, enabling more personalized intervention strategies.

Most adults benefit from checking the TyG index yearly as part of a cardiometabolic panel. After a sustained change in diet, activity, or body composition, retest at 8 to 12 weeks.

At baseline / for screening: Once every 12 months from age 30 as part of a cardiometabolic check. More frequently, every 3 to 6 months, if you have pre-diabetes, type 2 diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome, or a family history of any of these.

When monitoring an intervention or change: Retest 8 to 12 weeks after a sustained lifestyle change, such as reducing refined carbs and added sugars, increasing physical activity, meaningful weight loss, or improving sleep quality. The same window applies after starting or adjusting glucose-lowering medication (metformin, GLP-1 receptor agonist, SGLT2 inhibitor). If a result was above target, reconfirm sooner once you've begun addressing the most likely driver.