Metabolic Syndrome
Up to ⅓ of US adults now have metabolic syndrome and that number is growing.
What is metabolic syndrome?
Metabolic syndrome is a set of conditions that increases your risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. This grouping includes high blood pressure, high blood sugar, too much fat around the waist, and high cholesterol or triglyceride levels. While having only one of these conditions taxes your system and puts you at risk of serious disease, having three or more of these conditions indicates metabolic syndrome.
What are the signs and symptoms of metabolic syndrome?
This body shape tends to increase the risk of diabetes, heart disease, and other conditions or complications related to metabolic syndrome.
Though many people with metabolic syndrome don’t experience symptoms, these are some of the most common. If you experience any of these symptoms, schedule your consultation with Medlink Health Solutions right away.
- Abdominal obesity or large waist line (typically 35 inches or more for men and 41 inches or more for women)
- High blood pressure (130/80 or higher)
- High blood sugar (Fasting level of 100 mg/dL+)
- High triglycerides (150 mg/dL+)
- Low HDL “good” cholesterol: HDL levels below 40 mg/dL
- Fatigue, lethargy, or somnolence
- Unexpected weight gain or loss
- Marked change in appetite
- Increased thirst
- Frequent urination
- Abnormal, unique and noticeable odor of breath, sweat, or urine
- Blurred vision
- Darkened skin patches (acanthosis nigricans) or changes in skin color
- Sleep apnea
- Muscle weakness
- Abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting
- Developmental problems (especially in infants)
How do I know if I have metabolic syndrome?
The five criteria for determining your metabolic health are:
- Waist circumference
- Blood pressure
- Fasting blood glucose level,
- High-density lipoprotein cholesterol level
- Triglyceride levels
Your doctor at Medlink can help determine whether you have metabolic syndrome, providing you with a treatment protocol..
What should I expect on my visit with Dr. Taddiken?
What can happen if I leave my metabolic syndrome untreated?
Here’s the good news!
In both instances, you can slow or stop metabolic syndrome by applying a range of lifestyle changes and the possible use of medications. If you have metabolic syndrome, it’s important that you receive ongoing care.
How can Medlink Health Solutions help me with my metabolism?
Your treatment protocol may first include nutrition education and lifestyle change counseling that involves a heart-healthy diet and exercise, helping you to avoid sugary and processed foods so you can become more metabolically healthy.
If you need additional support beyond lifestyle changes, we may prescribe supplements or medicines to help manage your blood pressure, blood sugar levels, or cholesterol. We will assess your individual needs and recommend the best course of treatment as part of your medical management.
How can I help improve my metabolic function?
Quitting smoking and losing weight or managing a healthy weight will contribute to your metabolic health.
Lifestyle changes, as outlined above, include a healthy diet.
Focus on fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean protein, and healthy fats. Your doctor can help you determine what to eat and demonstrate how to limit saturated and trans fats, processed foods, sugary drinks, added sodium, and excessive alcohol. Your doctor may recommend a heart-healthy DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) or Mediterranean diet, depending upon your circumstances.
Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity on most days of the week. Consider brisk walking, jogging, swimming, or cycling and incorporate strength training to boost metabolism by building muscle.
Prioritize sleep and find healthy ways to cope with stress to further support your metabolic function.
