Metabolic Syndrome

Definition

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

Scientific / Technical Definition

Metabolic syndrome is a multifactorial health disorder characterized by insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, increased waist circumference (central obesity), dyslipidemia (elevated triglycerides, decreased HDL cholesterol), elevated blood pressure, and elevated fasting glucose levels. It is associated with an increased risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus.

Benefits

• Early detection may lead to lifestyle changes that reduce risk factors.
• Managing components of the syndrome, like blood pressure and cholesterol, can improve overall health and longevity.
• Weight loss and dietary improvements may reverse metabolic abnormalities.

Examples

• Although not food sources, contributing factors to the syndrome include a high-calorie diet and sedentary behavior.

Additional Information

• effects: Metabolic syndrome significantly raises the risk for developing cardiovascular disease and diabetes. It may also increase the likelihood of fatty liver disease, chronic kidney disease, and sleep apnea.

Related Terms

• Cardiovascular Health
• Insulin Resistance
• Type 2 Diabetes
• Hypertension

References

• New Insights into the Metabolic Syndrome
• The Metabolic Syndrome: Common Adult Health Problem
• Metabolic Syndrome and Related Disorders