What Are the Risk Factors for Metabolic Syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome is a big problem. According to the American Heart Association, about 47 million Americans—about one in six people in the United States—have the condition. But what is it, and is it that big of a deal?

In short, metabolic syndrome is a group of symptoms that increases the risk of heart disease, which often leads to heart attack and stroke, and increases the risk of diabetes by five.

That sounds scary, and it should be taken seriously if you have it, but it is treatable with the right strategy.

Risk Factors

Metabolic syndrome is not a disease in itself but a group of risk factors. The syndrome is characterized by the following risk factors:

  • Large waist size
  • High blood pressure
  • High triglycerides
  • Low good cholesterol
  • High fasting glucose levels

You do not need to have all of these factors to be diagnosed with this syndrome. In fact, a doctor may diagnose you if you have three or more. The good news is that it is treatable with some simple lifestyle changes.

Treating Metabolic Syndrome

You can treat metabolic syndrome with the following strategies:

  • Lose Weight – If you have metabolic syndrome, it’s time to start thinking about losing weight. One of the most obvious risk factors, high abdominal fat, is also one of the most detrimental to your health.
  • Eat Healthy – Weight loss begins with your diet. A healthy diet can improve your cholesterol and lower your blood pressure, too. If you don’t know what a healthy diet looks like, don’t be afraid to ask your doctor. In general, though, what you want is a diet that is low in cholesterol, trans fats, saturated fats, and salt. Try adding more fruits, veggies, lean meat, beans, and whole grains.
  • Exercise – Another way to lose weight is to start living an active lifestyle. But weight loss isn’t the only reason to exercise, so don’t get discouraged if you don’t see the pounds melt away at first. Exercise is great for improving cholesterol levels and lowering blood pressure as well as improving insulin resistance.
  • Quit Smoking – If you smoke, it’s time to start planning to quit. Even though it’s not a risk factor of metabolic syndrome, it can make your other treatments, like weight loss and exercise, less effective. Smoking also increases the risk of heart disease and cancer, so kick the habit as soon as possible to improve your health dramatically.

Check out ICBR’s Upcoming Clinics

At ICBR, we want you to be happy and healthy. If you are struggling with metabolic syndrome, ask us about how Cell Therapy and nutritional guidance can help. Interested in attending one of our clinics? You can view the upcoming dates here.