BackgroundThe Triglyceride-glucose (TyG) index is an emerging marker for insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome. Helicobacter pylori, a bacterium associated with gastrointestinal diseases, may also influence metabolic risk profiles. This study aimed to investigate the relationship between the TyG index and Helicobacter pylori infection among a representative sample of adults.MethodsA total of 9965 participants from the NHANES 1999-2000 cycle were involved from March 1, 1999, to December 1, 2000.A cross-sectional analysis was conducted on 3797 participants. The baseline characteristics according to the quartile of the TyG index were evaluated.Multivariate binary logistic regression models were constructed to analyze the independent effects of the TyG index on Helicobacter pylori infection. A two-piecewise binary logistic regression model was used to explore the non-linear relationship between the TyG index and Helicobacter pylori, with an inflection point identified. Subgroup analyses were performed to assess the trends of effect sizes across different variables including age, sex, glucose levels, body mass index (BMI), and chronic kidney disease (CKD).ResultsMultivariate analysis indicated a linear relationship between the TyG index and Helicobacter pylori infection, suggesting differential influence of the TyG index on Helicobacter pylori infection. Subgroup analysis demonstrated significant interactions only for a few variables, with all p-values for interaction below 0.05.ConclusionsThe study suggests a linear association between the TyG index and Helicobacter pylori infection.These findings have implications for understanding the metabolic influences on Helicobacter pylori infection and may guide targeted interventions for at-risk populations.