Metabolic Syndrome and Obesity

Recent studies have estimated that 1 in 4 adults are afflicted with Metabolic Syndrome. Many don’t even know that they are. Metabolic syndrome is a group of high risk factors for cardio vascular disease, conditions such as high blood pressure, high blood sugar, high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, and large waist circumference. These factors increase the risk of developing heart disease, diabetes, heart attacks, and strokes. One of the major indicators of metabolic syndrome is the onset of central obesity, and insulin resistance leading to all the disorders.

Abdominal obesity is what can lead to the development of metabolic syndrome. A waist circumference ≥102 cm in men and ≥ 88 cm in women is one of the parts of diagnosing metabolic syndrome. The fat around the abdomen is a better method of looking into if a patient may have metabolic syndrome because studies have shown that abdominal fat is more correlated with metabolic syndrome than overall body fat. Obesity also tends to be followed with other diagnosis factors such as:

• Elevated triglycerides (≥150 mg/dl)

• Reduced HDL cholesterol (<40 mg/dl in men and < 50 mg/dl in women)

• Elevated blood pressure (≥130/85 mm Hg or on treatment for hypertension)

• Elevated glucose (≥100 mg/dl)

Obesity also is usually followed with an insulin resistance in the body. Insulin resistance is when cells in the body begin to ignore the signals of the hormone insulin, which regulates the sugar levels in the body. When suffering from obesity, the body also may release products such as Non-esterified fatty acids (NEFAs), Inflammatory cytokines, PAI-1, Adiponectin, Leptin, and Resistin in abnormal amounts. These factors have also been linked to the development of metabolic syndrome.

Understanding the factors of metabolic syndrome and the possible risks is key to ensuring that you carry out a healthy and mindful lifestyle. If you experience any symptoms of metabolic syndrome, meet with your doctor immediately. Metabolic syndrome is a condition that can be treated with the right care.

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