“Metabolic” means biochemical processes related to normal functioning of body and “metabolic syndrome” refers to the disruption of body’s normal functions. Metabolic syndrome is a group of disease risk factors that can increase risk of cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. It is also known as insulin resistance syndrome.

Metabolic syndrome ups the risk for health conditions namely heart disease, diabetes and stroke.

Risk Factors

High Blood Pressure:

A raise in blood pressure over a long time may cause plaque formation and damage heart. Blood pressure above 130/85mm/Hg is considered high blood pressure.

High Blood Sugar:

It constitutes an early indication for diabetes. Fasting blood sugar above 100mg/dL is considered high.

Low High-Density Lipoprotein (HDL) Levels:

Lowered levels of HDL (good cholesterol) below 40 mg/dL significantly increases risk of heart disease.

High levels of triglyceride above 150mg/dL.

Excessive Abdominal Fat:

Excessive fat around waistline as compared to other parts of body is a greater risk factor for heart disease. A waist size of more than 40 inch in men and more than 35 inch in women.

A person having three or more of these risk factors pose a higher risk of getting cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.

Diagnosis And Prevention

A person is said to be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, if he is having at least three of these metabolic risk factors. Factors such as being obese, and lack of exercise are closely linked to risk of metabolic syndrome. Insulin resistance, genetics and age are other factors playing role in causing metabolic syndrome.

Metabolic syndrome is greatly affected by lifestyle and is increasingly common. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, eating a well-balanced diet and regular exercise can help in delaying or preventing metabolic syndrome and further, the development of more serious health problems.