Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of health conditions that occur as a result of poorly controlled metabolism. It is a combination of high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, high cholesterol levels, and excess body weight.

Metabolic syndrome has become a major health concern, especially in developed countries and among the elderly.

Metabolic Syndrome Symptoms

Metabolic syndrome presents a variety of symptoms, including the following:.

Belly fat: In metabolic syndrome, fat accumulates in the abdominal area, leading to a protruding belly.
High blood pressure: Blood pressure readings exceeding 130/85 mmHg are considered high and a symptom of metabolic syndrome.
High blood sugar: Fasting blood sugar over 100mg/dL indicates high blood sugar level.
Low HDL cholesterol: HDL cholesterol is the good kind of cholesterol, and metabolic syndrome is indicated by low levels of HDL, below 40 mg/dL for men and 50mg/dL for women.
High Triglycerides: Triglycerides are a form of fat that are associated with heart diseases and high levels are an indication of metabolic syndrome, exceeding 150mg/dL.

The Risks of Metabolic Syndrome

Individuals with metabolic syndrome are at higher risk of developing the following health conditions:.

Diabetes: With high blood sugar levels, people with metabolic syndrome are at risk of developing type 2 diabetes, which is the most common form of diabetes.
High blood pressure: Uncontrolled hypertension can lead to heart attack and stroke, and is often a precursor to heart disease.
Cardiovascular disease: The collection of symptoms in metabolic syndrome means that individuals who have it are at higher risk for heart disease.
Chronic Kidney Disease: Metabolic Syndrome increases the risks of Chronic Kidney Disease, which is a group of diseases that affect kidney function over time.
Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease: Excess fat accumulates in the liver of people with metabolic syndrome, leading to inflammation and scarring of liver cells. This can progress to non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD).

Causes of Metabolic Syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is caused by a combination of genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors. Some of the contributing factors include:.

Sedentary lifestyle
Poor nutrition
Genetics and family history
Excess consumption of alcohol
Smoking.
Stress

Prevention and Management of Metabolic Syndrome

Although there is no cure for metabolic syndrome, it can be managed, and its effects mitigated with the following lifestyle changes:.

Eating a healthy diet: Including high-fiber, low-fat, and low-cholesterol foods in your diet.
Exercising regularly: Engaging in at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity such as brisk walking or cycling on most days of the week can help to control weight, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels.
Reducing alcohol consumption: Limiting alcohol intake to moderate levels can reduce the risks of metabolic syndrome by managing blood pressure levels and reducing inflammation in the body.
Smoking cessation: Quitting smoking reduces the risk of heart disease and other smoking-related health problems.
Managing stress: Stress management techniques such as meditation, yoga, and deep-breathing exercises may help to reduce stress levels and improve overall health.

The Bottom Line

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of health conditions that occur as a result of poorly controlled metabolism. It comprises high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, high cholesterol levels, and excess body weight.

Metabolic syndrome increases the risks of developing diabetes, heart disease, and non-alcoholic fatty liver disease, among other health conditions. A healthy diet, regular exercise, stress management, and reduction of alcohol intake and smoking can help to mitigate the risks and symptoms of metabolic syndrome.