What Is Metabolic Syndrome? (Treatment & Prevention)

Although one-third of American adults are suffering from metabolic syndrome, few are aware of it. Nevertheless, this is a serious illness which can be life-threatening so it’s worth knowing what metabolic syndrome is, its symptoms and how you can prevent it.

What is metabolic syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome is not a disease per se, but rather a combination of multiple disorders that show up simultaneously. The diagnosis matters because, in time, it can increase your risk of stroke, type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

According to Mayo Clinic, metabolic syndrome appears when a person has at least three of the following:

• Low levels of LDL cholesterol
• High blood sugar levels
• Increased blood sugar pressure
• Excess body fat
• High triglyceride levels

Having just one of the above symptoms does not mean you’re at risk of developing metabolic syndrome. However, it does mean you should make lifestyle changes to improve your overall health and avoid complications.

Symptoms & causes

Unfortunately, there aren’t many clear signs that you’re suffering from metabolic syndrome. Many people may have low LDL cholesterol levels or increased blood sugar pressure and not even know it. This is why it’s important to get an annual checkup with your doctor and make sure that you’re healthy.

However, there are a few reasons why someone would be prone to metabolic syndrome:

• Obesity or being overweight
• Sedentary lifestyle
• Age (the risk increases as you get older)
• Genetics (family history, ethnicity)
• Insulin resistance (a condition when the body can’t manage insulin properly)

Additionally, people diagnosed with this disease may have increased chances of blood clotting and inflammation in different areas of the body. So far, though, specialists can’t tell whether these conditions are caused by metabolic syndrome or just worsened by it.

Treatment & prevention

The most effective way of treating and preventing metabolic syndrome is to live a heart-healthy lifestyle. This implies:

• Balanced diet rich in nutritious foods (fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean meats)
• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Being physically active
• Quitting smoking and reducing alcohol (if that’s the case)
• Managing stress levels

If you think you’re at risk for metabolic syndrome, Wellness Captain provides plenty of content that can keep your heart, mind and soul happy. Here are some of our top resources:

• 5 Foods That Keep Your Heart Healthy This Fall
• Heart Disease – How to Keep at Bay and Live a Healthy Life
• Protect Your Heart with the Best Supplements for Heart Health
• Strokes in Women: Risks, Symptoms and Prevention