Metabolic Syndrome

Welcome to the Affordable Drugs Metabolic Syndrome disease information page. The information about Metabolic Syndrome contained on this page is intended for individuals with Metabolic Syndrome or those who wish to learn more about Metabolic Syndrome. Here you can learn about what Metabolic Syndrome is, Metabolic Syndrome symptoms, Metabolic Syndrome diet and more. You can also find the best prices available on Metabolic Syndrome treatments. The information on this page is not intended to replace the professional advice of your physician.

What Is Metabolic Syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome combines a number of conditions included elevated blood pressure, high insulin levels, excessive body fat around the abdomen, and high cholesterol which increases the likelihood of diabetes, stroke, and heart disease. 

If a person is diagnosed with this syndrome, the most helpful treatment is a drastic change in lifestyle such as in diet and exercise.

Metabolic Syndrome Symptoms

In order to determine whether or not you have metabolic syndrome, there are a number of symptoms which can help in diagnosis. These include obesity, high blood pressure over 120/80, elevated levels of triglycerides, as well as a resistance to insulin. 

If you have at least one of the symptoms of metabolic syndrome, you should visit a physician as more symptoms may be present that you are not yet aware of.

Metabolic Syndrome Causes

Metabolic syndrome is linked to insulin resistance and to the metabolism of the body. Insulin, a hormone, is produced in the pancreas and controls the degree of sugar in the blood. 

In a healthy individual, the digestive system serves to break down foods into glucose. The blood then carries the sugar to the various tissues in the body. The glucose passes into the cells with the aid of insulin. However, in the case of insulin, the glucose is not able to enter the cells as they do not respond as they should to the presence of insulin. The body then develops additional insulin meaning that the blood contains elevated levels of the hormone. This can eventually lead to the development of diabetes as mentioned in the section entitled What is Metabolic Syndrome? 

Even if the levels are not quite high enough to make you diabetic, the high levels of glucose can increase the levels of triglycerides and blood fat. It is also interfere with the kidneys thereby leading to high blood pressure.

Metabolic Syndrome Risk factors

There are number of factors to consider when attempting to answer the question of " What is Metabolic Syndrome? ". The first of these factors is age. The likelihood of the condition increases with age with approximately 40% of people over 60 being affected. Despite this, the first symptoms are seen in early childhood. 

The second factor is race with Hispanics and Asians being the most likely to be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome. The third is obesity with individuals with a BMI or body mass index over 25 being an enormous risk factor. Additionally, if there is a family history of diabetes, a person is more likely to suffer from the syndrome. 

In addition, if a person has already been diagnosed with diabetes or with a form of cardiovascular disease, they are more likely to be later diagnosed with this metabolic disorder.

Metabolic Syndrome Treatment

After you have come to fully comprehend " what is metabolic syndrome ?" and whether or not you have the condition, the physician will discuss what you can do in order to alleviate the symptoms. 

The first is exercise. Physicians recommend that an individual exercise for a period between 30 to 60 minutes each day. The second is loss of weight, usually between 5 to 10% of body weight is sufficient for a start. The third natural means of treatment is to begin a more healthy diet which limits the consumption of unhealthy fats and an increase in fruits and vegetables. And, in particular, a person should cease smoking if they are a smoker. Cigarettes and nicotine products increase the likelihood of insulin resistance and worsen other health conditions. Discuss quitting with your physician. 

Make sure to work with the physician in order to monitor your weight as well as your glucose levels to ensure that your health is not at risk. If you do not appear to be able to naturally change your lifestyle, your doctor may prescribe medications to control blood pressure and cholesterol.

Metabolic Syndrome Symptoms

What causes metabolic syndrome symptoms?

The individual conditions that make up metabolic syndrome - high blood pressure and diabetes, for example - often cause the symptoms that define metabolic syndrome. 

Are metabolic syndrome symptoms noticeable at home?

As with most health conditions, the earlier metabolic syndrome is recognized and treated, the better the outcome may be. Because it is impossible to diagnose metabolic syndrome at home, it is important to watch for these symptoms of metabolic syndrome and seek further testing if necessary.

� A body with an "apple" rather than "pear" shape
� Symptoms of high blood sugar that may be linked with diabetes, such as increased thirst and urination, fatigue, and blurred vision
� Symptoms of high blood pressure, such as headaches, nosebleeds, or dizziness
� Knowing there are other risk factors, such as a sedentary lifestyle
� Depression
� Difficulty losing weight
� Stress
� Skin tags
� Heart palpitations or irregular heart beat
� Memory problems

What are the symptoms of metabolic syndrome the doctor will look for?

A doctor cannot diagnose metabolic syndrome without taking a health history and performing certain tests. Being prepared in advance of the appointment and being familiar with the symptoms of metabolic syndrome can help get the most accurate diagnosis.

� A family or personal history of diabetes mellitus
� Abdominal fat deposits
� High blood pressure, measuring more than 130/85 or who are on blood pressure medication
� High LDL (low density lipoprotein) cholesterol (over 150 mg/dl)
� High triglycerides (above 150 mg/dl)
� High fasting blood glucose levels (higher than 100 mg/dl)
� Men with waistlines larger than 40" or women with waistlines greater than 35"
� Low HDL (high density lipoprotein) cholesterol (less than 50 mg/dl for women or 40 mg/dl for men)
� Insulin resistance
� Sleep apnea
� High c-reactive protein reactive levels (inflammation)
� Blood clotting abnormalities
� Type 2 diabetes
� Microalbuminuria (when the kidneys leak protein - or albumin - into the urine)
� Peripheral neuropathy

Metabolic syndrome symptoms in children

Due to the childhood obesity epidemic, an ever-increasing number of children are at risk of developing metabolic syndrome. The symptoms of metabolic syndrome in children are defined slightly differently than in adults.

� Children who are obese are at risk of developing metabolic syndrome.
� Children with hypertension - high blood pressure - are also at risk of developing metabolic syndrome.
� Children who have pre-diabetes or type 2 diabetes are at risk of developing metabolic syndrome.
� Children with low HDL or high LDL cholesterol are at risk.

Because an "apple shape" or large waistline is often the most visible or obvious symptom of metabolic syndrome, it is very important to maintain a healthy weight, particularly as one ages. Those with pre-existing health conditions such as high blood pressure and Type 2 Diabetes need to carefully monitor their conditions and be vigilant for metabolic syndrome symptoms, as well as maintain regular contact with their doctors for further testing as needed.

Metabolic Syndrome Diet

According to recent data from the World Health Organization, 20 - 30 % of the population in industrialized countries have metabolic syndrome, that is nearly one quarter of the world's population. If your physician has diagnosed you with this syndrome he/she may recommend what is known as the metabolic syndrome diet.

What types of changes can you expect from the diet for metabolic syndrome? One important change will be to eat a wholesome breakfast. Essential to the metabolic syndrome diet is regaining mastery of the metabolism. The recommendation is to eat between 3 and 5 milligrams of fiber in the early a.m. to start the day as one key factor in accomplishing this. How? Start by choosing an Organic or Whole Grain granola and/or flaxseed cereal with skim milk. Nature's Path Organic Granola cereal plus flax, or Kashi brand Granola cereals are both choices with fiber in the recommended levels. You will also begin to concentrate on eating smaller portions spread over the course of every 3 - 4 hours instead of 2 or 3 large meals during the day. 

The metabolic syndrome diet ensures for healthful snacking, items such as unprocessed nuts and fruits are your first line of defense. Keep yourself armed by preparing � cup of dried fruit, like cranberries, blueberries or raspberries and filling heart healthy nuts like pistaccio, almond, or soy nuts, in a convenient small food storage bag and you'll be prepared when you need a sweet crunchy snack. 

You will also significantly decrease your daily intake of red meat, whole dairy products, and sweet baked goods while on the diet for metabolic syndrome. Have you tried a vegetarian soy based meat replacement? Many healthful soy options taste just as good to the pallet as the meats you formerly may of eaten like ground beef. If you are a pasta fan, you can still continue to love your pasta and eat it too! Many pasta companies now make whole grain alternatives, some with fiber, here again portion control is the key as typically 2 - 4 times the recommended 1 cup size is consumed on average. Try a soy meat replacement, 8 ounces of cooked whole grain pasta, and 1 large can of sodium free, crushed whole tomatoes with italian seasoning for a delicious and healthy spaghetti and meat sauce alternative.

Another important factor is to monitor your beverage intake. Alcohol and high sugar drinks should be reduced or eliminated while following the diet for metabolic syndrome. Many alternatives such as Crystal Light, Wyler's Sugar Free, and other zero calorie beverages can be mixed with no calorie soda water to provide a light refreshing beverage that will keep you on target with your healthy goals. There are also alternatives to alcoholic beverages, such as virgin versions made without the alcohol that are just as enjoyable. Be sure you read labels in this regard, as some brands of virgin beverage mixers can add refined sugars and sodium which would make a selection out of harmony with this plan.

What else may help in combination with the diet for metabolic syndrome? The National Center for Complementary and Alternative Medicine has conducted studies on the effectiveness of certain drugs in the treatment of metabolic syndrome, and there are promising results related to Chromium Picolinate and Vanadium in the treatment of this disease along with following the metabolic syndrome diet plan. In other studies, positive outcomes have also been identified in the use of Progesterone creams by female participants and Alpha Lipoic Acid (an antioxidant) cream, all of which are available through your pharmacy.

Metabolic Syndrome Causes

Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions characterized by high blood pressure, excess abdominal fat, elevated insulin levels, high triglycerides, and low High Density Lipoprotein (the good cholesterol). When these conditions co-occur, doctors may diagnose you with metabolic syndrome, which increases the risk of stroke, diabetes, and heart disease. Having one or two of these conditions does not constitute metabolic syndrome, only when they all occur together. 

Causes of Metabolic Syndrome

Insulin resistance is one of the causes of metabolic syndrome. Insulin, which is a hormone produced in the pancreas, regulates glucose levels in the bloodstream by transporting it (glucose) to cells in the body. The cells then use the glucose for energy. When a person suffers from insulin resistance, their cells do not allow insulin to enter and drop off the glucose. Therefore, the pancreas responds by making more insulin to help get the job done, this causes an increase in insulin levels, which may eventually lead to diabetes. Elevated insulin levels also cause high triglycerides and excess abdominal fat, all of which are causes of metabolic syndrome. 

High levels of insulin in the bloodstream may lead to diabetes. When a person suffers from diabetes, their kidneys work harder to filter out the excess glucose and insulin. As your kidneys work harder, it causes an increase in blood pressure. All of these factors working together are causes of metabolic syndrome. While doctors are not exactly sure what triggers insulin resistance in people, they think that genetics and environmental factors both play a role. 

Other metabolic syndrome causes include being overweight or obese, sedentary lifestyle, and age. Additionally, people who suffer from metabolic syndrome typically have excess inflammation throughout the body and an increase of blood clotting. Obesity is defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of over twenty-five. Overweight is defined as having a Body Mass Index (BMI) of over thirty. People with a sedentary lifestyle are inactive for the largest part of the day; generally, they are active for less than thirty minutes each day. People over sixty are more prone to developing metabolic syndrome because as people age, they tend to gain weight and live a more sedentary lifestyle. 

Excess body weight causes increased triglycerides, high cholesterol, and elevated blood pressure, all of which contribute to causing metabolic syndrome. A sedentary lifestyle and old age contribute to obesity; consequently, linking all causes together. In addition, diabetes is more prevalent in older people who are overweight and inactive.

Doctors and researchers are continually studying other possible metabolic syndrome causes, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, gallstones, sleep apnea, and fatty liver disease. Gallstones develop when there is an excess of cholesterol in the bloodstream and bile. Polycystic ovarian syndrome occurs in women with insulin resistance, inflammation throughout the body, and a history of it in their family. People suffering from sleep apnea typically have excess abdominal fat and high triglycerides. Fatty liver disease causes an increase in triglycerides and a decrease in HDL in the body. 

Causes of metabolic syndrome are intertwined with one another, which mean that as one occurs it is likely to cause another to occur. Metabolic syndrome causes you to be at an increase risk for heart disease and stroke. Symptoms include being overweight, high triglycerides, low "good" cholesterol or HDL, and high blood pressure. Metabolic syndrome causes the person suffering from it to have an apple or pear shape, which means excess abdominal fat.

Doctors diagnose high blood pressure when it is over 120/80 and high triglyceride levels when they are over 150. Cholesterol and blood glucose levels can only be measured accurately with a fasting blood test. 

The risk for developing metabolic syndrome increases with age, body weight, race, diabetes, and other diseases. Metabolic syndrome is most prominent in people over sixty, who are Hispanic or Asian, and overweight with a BMI over twenty-five. Additionally, a family history of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and/or polycystic ovarian syndrome puts people at an increased risk.

Metabolic Syndrome Risk Factors

There are multiple risk factors that can put a person in danger of developing metabolic syndrome. It is important to be aware of the risk factors for metabolic syndrome, as the sooner these risk factors are identified and treated, the greater the likelihood of increased lifespan and improved overall health.

AGE - The risk of developing metabolic syndrome increases as a person ages, occurring in less than 10% in people in their 20s, but rising to 40% prevalence in people in their 60s. A genetic predisposition can also put even children in danger of developing metabolic syndrome.

RACE - one of the somewhat puzzling metabolic syndrome risk factors is race, with Hispanics and Asians being in greater danger of developing this syndrome than people of other races. 

POOR HEALTH - Other diseases and conditions that are considered to be risk factors for metabolic syndrome are high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and polycystic ovary syndrome. Low levels of high-density lipoprotein (the "good" cholesterol) and high levels of low-density lipoprotein (the "bad" cholesterol) are also dangerous and indicative of a high likelihood of developing metabolic syndrome.

LIFESTYLE - A sedentary lifestyle and excessive caloric intake are also considered to be risk factors for metabolic syndrome, increasing the likelihood of an individual developing that or others serious health issues. People who do not exercise regularly or eat unhealthy, fatty foods are at a greater risk of developing metabolic syndrome than individuals who maintain a healthy, active lifestyle.

OBESITY - Obesity drastically increases the chances of developing metabolic syndrome. A BMI of 30 or higher, as well as a waistline of 35+ inches for women or 40+ inches for men are among the most indicative metabolic syndrome risk factors. People who carry excessive fat in the abdominal region are at the highest risk of developing metabolic syndrome and other severe health conditions.

STRESS - Another of the major metabolic syndrome risk factors is how much stress a person is under. Chronic, on-going stress increases the production of hormones that are intended for momentary use in dire situations, but stress causes a continuous production of these hormones, which puts the body in danger of many different diseases and health issues.

HABITS - Unhealthy habits, such as smoking, excessive drinking, and unhealthy usage of drugs (prescription, over-the-counter, or illicit) can contribute to the likelihood of developing metabolic syndrome.

The chances of developing heart disease, diabetes, having a stroke, and, of course, metabolic syndrome increase when even one of these metabolic syndrome risk factors are present. Individuals who display one or more of these risk factors should consult their doctor or other health care professional immediately for information on the best steps to take to lessen or remove any major risk factors for metabolic syndrome. 

It is important that individuals who wish to lessen their chances of developing metabolic syndrome first speak with their doctor, as some diets, exercise plans, and medications are not safe and should not be pursued or used without the approval and guidance of a medical professional.

Metabolic Syndrome Treatments

The first and primary method of treatments for metabolic syndrome is across the board lifestyle changes for the patient. This means the patient must lose weight, participate in regular physical activity, stick to a diet that is good for the heart, and patients who smoke must quit smoking.

The goal of metabolic syndrome treatments that involve lifestyle change is to decrease the patient's risk of heart disease. This goal can be achieved by concentrating the treatment on lowering high blood pressure, reducing the levels of LDL cholesterol in the blood, and managing diabetes.

Another aim of treatments for metabolic syndrome centered on lifestyle changes is to stop the onset of type-2 diabetes, if the patient hasn't developed it already. It is important keep the patient's condition from getting this far as there are so many complications associated with type-2 diabetes like kidney and heart disease, loss of vision, and the possibility of losing a foot or leg.

Treatments for metabolic syndrome concentrates on managing the things that are controllable like obesity, a sedentary lifestyle, and unhealthy eating habits.

Losing Weight
One of the goals of metabolic syndrome treatments is to try to lose 7 to 10 percent of their body weight during the first year after beginning treatment. After that first goal is met in the first year, patients should continue to lose as much weight as they can. Ultimately, the body mass index (BMI) should be less that 25 percent. BMI calculates a persons weight as it relates to their height. Someone with a BMI between 25 and 29.9 is overweight and 30 or higher that person is considered obese.

Proper Diet
One of the metabolic syndrome treatments regarding lifestyle change is to follow a diet that is healthy for the heart. This should include a wide variety of vegetables, fruit, and grain. Fifty percent of the grain eaten should be from whole grain products like wheat, oats, barley, and brown rice. Heart healthy food should also be low in saturated fat, trans fat, and cholesterol. Good examples are skinless poultry, lean meat, fish, beans, and low-fat dairy products.

A patient with metabolic syndrome should also limit their intake of salt as this can raise the risk of high blood pressure. All food and beverages should have low amounts of added sugar and alcohol should be consumed in moderation.

Physical Activity
Treatments for metabolic syndrome include combining regular physical activity with the healthy diet can be one of the most important ways to keep the lungs and heart healthy. Luckily, with even small amounts of physical activity are good for the health, so the more exercise the patient gets, the bigger the benefits.

Metabolic syndrome patients should first check with their doctor to find out what type and how much exercise is safe. There are four main types of physical activity - aerobic, muscle strengthening, bone strengthening, and stretching that can be done with light, moderate, or vigorous intensity. People with metabolic syndrome should maintain a moderate level of intensity with their exercise.

Smoking
Smoking raises the risk of heart disease considerably so it is important the metabolic syndrome patients make every effort to quit smoking. A doctor can recommend products or techniques to help quit smoking.

Medicines
Metabolic syndrome treatments may sometimes involve prescription medication to help control the risk factors if lifestyle changes are not enough. For instance, unhealthy cholesterol levels are treated with medicines that contain statins, fibrates, or nicotinic acid. High blood pressure can be controlled with a variety of different things like ACE inhibitors or diuretics. Medicines and/or insulin can be used to control high blood sugar. Taking a low-dose aspirin every day can help reduce the chance of blood clots.