Metabolic syndrome or syndrome X is a health condition that is characterized by a group of health conditions that occur simultaneously.
These health conditions—high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, excess body fat around the waist and unhealthy cholesterol levels—increase your risk of heart disease, stroke and Diabetes. | |
Symptoms
The indicators of metabolic syndrome include: - Obesity, particularly excess fat around your waist.
- Persistent high blood pressure.
- High levels of the blood fat called triglycerides and a low level of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol—the "good" cholesterol.
- Resistance to insulin, a Hormone that helps to regulate the amount of sugar in your body.
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If you have any three of the above symptoms, it can be concluded that you have metabolic syndrome. Additionally, individuals having even one of the above symptoms are at an increased risk of developing the other symptoms as well.
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Causes
Metabolic syndrome is caused by a diet high in calories, saturated fat and a lack of sufficient physical activity. Excessive alcohol intake and smoking can aggravate the condition.
Healthy lifestyle, balanced nutritious diet and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of metabolic syndrome related complications such as heart disease, stroke and Diabetes. | |
- Obesity: An elevated body mass index (BMI) increases your risk of metabolic syndrome. So does excessive fat around the waist.
- History of diabetes: You are more likely to have metabolic syndrome if you have a family history of Diabetes or a history of Diabetes during pregnancy, also called gestational Diabetes.
- Other health conditions: High blood pressure, Cardiovascular disease or polycystic Ovary syndrome—a similar type of metabolic problem that affects a woman's hormones and reproductive system—also increases your risk of metabolic syndrome.
- Age: The prevalence of metabolic syndrome increases with age.
- Race: Hispanics and Asians are at greater risk of metabolic syndrome than other races are.
Seeing your doctor
Now that you know the typical symptoms of metabolic syndrome, consult your doctor even if you know you have one of these symptoms. This will help you know if you have any of the other related symptoms and take necessary precautions to avoid complications.
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Prevention
Tips to prevent or to reduce the complications of metabolic syndrome include: - Getting enough physical activity—exercising regularly, such as brisk walking for about 30–40 min everyday reduces the risks and/or complications of metabolic syndrome.
- Maintain a healthy body weight—this will reduce the risk of high blood pressure and Diabetes.
- Follow a healthy meal plan—eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, fish and whole grains. Avoid processed or deep-fried foods.
- Maintain a healthy lifestyle—stop smoking and limit your intake of alcohol.
- Visit your doctor regularly to check your blood pressure, cholesterol and blood sugar levels
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Finally
Receiving a diagnosis of metabolic syndrome can be tough on you. Dealing with even one of the symptoms can be difficult enough. If you have more or all of the symptoms things can look a bit gloomy.
But take heart because strict lifestyle changes and medication can improve your condition and provide relief. Meanwhile exercise, lose weight, quit smoking and follow your doctor’s advice unfailingly. | | Benefits of exercise | | Reduces your risk of high blood pressure, high cholesterol levels, heart disease, Diabetes and obesity | | Keeps you agile and flexible. | | Delays the effects of aging. | | Gives you a sense of well-being. | | Relieves stress, anxiety and depression. | | Increases your energy levels | | Promotes deep and sound sleep. |
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