Understanding Metabolic Syndrome

What is Metabolic Syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that occur together, increasing your risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. These conditions include high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body fat around the waist, and abnormal cholesterol levels.

Key Components

To be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, you must have at least three of these conditions:

• Large waist circumference
  • Men: > 40 inches (102 cm)
  • Women: > 35 inches (88 cm)
• Elevated triglycerides
  • ≥ 150 mg/dL
• Reduced HDL cholesterol
  • Men: < 40 mg/dL
  • Women: < 50 mg/dL
• High blood pressure
  • ≥ 130/85 mmHg
• Elevated fasting glucose
  • ≥ 100 mg/dL

Risk Factors

• Age (risk increases with age)
• Obesity
• Physical inactivity
• Insulin resistance
• Family history
• Hormonal imbalances

Health Complications

Untreated metabolic syndrome can lead to:

• Cardiovascular disease
• Type 2 diabetes
• Nonalcoholic fatty liver disease
• Sleep apnea
• Chronic kidney disease

Treatment and Management

Lifestyle Changes

• Regular physical activity (150 minutes/week)
• Healthy diet focusing on:
  • Whole grains
  • Lean proteins
  • Fruits and vegetables
  • Limited processed foods
• Weight management
• Stress reduction

Medical Management

• Blood pressure medications
• Cholesterol-lowering drugs
• Diabetes medications (if needed)
• Regular medical monitoring

Prevention Strategies

1. Maintain a healthy weight
2. Exercise regularly
3. Eat a balanced diet
4. Monitor blood pressure and cholesterol
5. Get regular health screenings
6. Manage stress effectively

When to See a Doctor

Consult your healthcare provider if you have:

• Persistent abdominal obesity
• High blood pressure readings
• Concerns about blood sugar levels
• Family history of related conditions