Metabolic Syndrome And Your Health

We hear a lot about “Metabolic syndrome” these days. 

The metabolic process regulates many body functions that, in turn, determine your quality of health. 

Metabolic Syndrome

According to the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute, “Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that together raise your risk of coronary heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and other serious health problems. Metabolic syndrome is also called insulin resistance syndrome. You may have metabolic syndrome if you have three or more of the following conditions.”

• A large waistline: extra fat in your belly area
• High blood pressure
• High blood sugar levels
• Low HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol)
• High blood triglycerides

Metabolic Syndrome And Your Health

Having just one of these conditions poses serious health issues. But having three increases your risk of the following, which can lead to heart failure and death: 

• Stroke
• Hypertension
• Ischemic heart disease
• Rheumatic heart disease
• Atrial fibrillation
• Congenital heart failure
• Cardiomyopathy
• Endocarditis
• Peripheral artery disease

Treating Metabolic Syndrome

Diet and exercise are great tried and true ways to take charge of your metabolism and deal with metabolic syndrome. 

For starters, people who enjoy a nutritious diet have fewer symptoms of metabolic syndrome, as you might imagine. 

Keep it simple when starting by eating foods with high calcium, magnesium, and vitamin D levels; reduce saturated fats, and get rid of trans fats entirely.

Additionally, strive to maintain a healthy weight. 

Next, start being more active. You’d be surprised how potent even a little physical activity is for your metabolic functions.

Make it a point to be more active. Stand more and sit less. 

Regarding physical activity, pushing yourself to 50% to 75% of your maximum does your health a world of good. Just be sure to consult your doctor before starting a strenuous exercise program.  

Try not to be overwhelmed. Here’s something every one of us can do. Enjoy a 15-minute brisk walk in the fresh air; better yet, do it with a friend to enjoy the health-boosting benefits of social connection. 

Play outside with your kids or grandkids. Just get out and move! The idea is to get your heart pumping and increase oxygen and blood flow throughout your body to reduce your risk of developing metabolic syndrome. 

Metabolic syndrome reduces your quality of life and functional independence. But by eating a little bit healthier and increasing physical activity, you start the process of unlocking your best life!