M is for Metabolic Syndrome

What is metabolic syndrome? Metabolic syndrome, is a cluster of metabolic risk factors. When a patient presents with these risk factors together, the chances for future cardiovascular problems, are greater than any one factor presenting alone.

For example, high blood pressure alone, is a serious condition, but when a patient has high blood pressure, along with high fasting glucose levels, and abdominal obesity, this patient may be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. There is a greater chance this patient will have cardiovascular problems, because of the combination of risk factors.
Metabolic syndrome is a serious health condition, that affects about 34 percent of adults, and places them at higher risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke, and diseases related to fatty buildups, in artery walls. The underlying causes of metabolic syndrome include overweight, and obesity, physical inactivity, and genetic factors.
How is metabolic syndrome diagnosed?
Metabolic syndrome occurs when a person has three or more, of the following measurements:

• Abdominal obesity (Waist circumference of 40 inches or above in men, and 35 inches, or above in women)
• Triglyceride level of 150 milligrams per deciliter of blood (mg/dL) or greater
• HDL cholesterol of less than 40 mg/dL in men, or less than 50 mg/dL in women
• Systolic blood pressure (top number) of 130 millimeters of mercury (mm Hg) or greater, or diastolic blood pressure (bottom number) of 85 mm Hg or greater
• Fasting glucose of 100 mg/dL or greater

Although metabolic syndrome is a serious condition, you can reduce your risks significantly, by reducing your weight; increasing your physical activity; eating a heart-healthy diet, that's rich in whole grains, fruits, vegetables, and fish; and working with your healthcare provider,

to monitor and manage blood glucose, blood cholesterol, and blood pressure.