Triglycerides provide energy to the body and their main function is to store energy for later use. Food contains calories from carbohydrates, protein and fat, and when more calories are consumed than the body can burn, calories are stored in the form of triglycerides. Hormones cause fat cells to release triglycerides for use by the body. Triglyceride levels controlled at or below 150 mg per liter can reduce the risk of heart disease. Proper triglycerides maintain blood vessel elasticity and have beneficial effects on other aspects of the body, maintaining endocrine balance for metabolism. Excessive triglyceride levels can lead to hyperlipidemia in the body, increasing the risk of cardiovascular disease and, in severe cases, atherosclerosis, which affects the normal pumping function of the heart.