What is Metabolic Syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome (also known as Syndrome X) is a syndrome of insulin resistance where the cells of our body become less sensitive to the insulin produced by our pancreas, leading to elevated blood glucose and insulin levels. The precise mechanism is unknown. The American Heart Association estimates that more than 50 million Americans have metabolic syndrome.

People with metabolic syndrome have a higher risk of developing diabetes and heart disease. With some lifestyle changes, you may be able to stop the development of metabolic syndrome or other serious diseases and conditions.

Metabolic Syndrome Risk Factors

There are some factors that may increase your chances of developing metabolic syndrome, including age (as much as 40 percent of people in their 60s), race (Hispanics and Asians are at greater risk), obesity (BMI > 25), history of diabetes and other diseases such as high blood pressure or cardiovascular disease.

Metabolic Syndrome Symptoms

There are several symptoms of metabolic syndrome. If you have three of the following features, you may have metabolic syndrome and you may be more likely to have a heart attack or stroke.

* Abdominal Obesity (> 35 inches in women; > 40 inches in men)
* High Blood Pressure (> 130 / 85)
* Elevated Fasting Blood Glucose (> 110)
* Low HDL Cholesterol ( 150)

Metabolic Syndrome Treatment

Treating your risk factors is a good way to treat metabolic syndrome. Lifestyle changes are the best metabolic syndrome treatment. The best treatment is a healthy diet and regular exercise.

* Exercise 30 to 60 minutes every day.
* Lose weight; as little as 5 percent to 10 percent of your body weight can reduce insulin levels and blood pressure as well as decrease your risk of diabetes.
* Stop smoking.

Work with your doctor to monitor your weight, blood glucose, cholesterol and blood pressure.

If you have one of the above symptoms, talk with your doctor to find out if you have others. Talk with your doctor about your treatment plan or make an appointment by calling 1.877.UT.CARES (1.877.882.2737) or email Healthcare Coordination.