Metabolic Syndrome

By Stephany Porter, ND, FABNO

The Bodhi Clinic

. http://www.bodhiclinic.com/

More Complementary & Integrative Healthcare Articles

Metabolic Syndrome

Weight loss has become an obsession in the United States. Is weight loss really the problem? How many of us have attempted to lose those extra pounds without success? Are your triglycerides remaining high even with medication? This article is to help you understand the connection between these three issues.

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions that occur together, increasing your risk of developing heart disease, stroke and diabetes. The condition is also known by other names including Syndrome X and insulin resistance. It has been estimated that metabolic syndrome will overtake cigarette smoking as the primary risk factor for cardiovascular disease. According to a national health survey, more than one in five Americans have metabolic syndrome.

Metabolic syndrome is diagnosed by having three or more of the following:

A waistline of 35 inches or more for women, 40 inches or more for men.

Blood pressure > 130/85 mm Hg

Fasting glucose >100

Triglycerides >150

High density lipoprotein level (HDL) <50 mg/dl in women and <40 mg/dl in men.

There are no noticeable symptoms to look for in the present moment. Over time, however, you may develop cardiovascular disease, diabetes, chronic inflammation or other chronic diseases. There are many theories on the cause of the syndrome including insulin resistance, hormonal imbalances, poor diet, physical inactivity and processed foods.

It appears to start with insulin resistance. Insulin is manufactured by the pancreas and knocks on the door of the cell to let it know that food (glucose) is available. If the doorbell is not working, the cell believes it is starving and large amounts of glucose remain in the blood stream. The message to the brain is to eat more for the cells are hungry, the extra glucose is stored in the fat cells and red blood cells become puffy from the sugar exposure leading to vascular damage. The result is an increase in weight, triglycerides and your risk for chronic disease.

The treatment is based on a combination of diet, lifestyle, exercise and specific nutrients. Each person has individual needs and should be assessed for their specific need by their doctor. The use of a bioelectric impedance analysis (BIA) machine is beneficial in working with metabolic syndrome. The BIA is a noninvasive method of assessing body composition by using electric signals which are impeded by body water, fat and fat free mass. This in combination with lab work are excellent tools to monitor your progress towards optimal health.

If your new years resolution is to lose weight, take a look at your risks for Metabolic syndrome. By addressing the nutritional deficiencies, correcting insulin resistance and making necessary lifestyle changes, you will reduce more than simply your weight. Make this New Year one to pamper yourself with healthy choices that increase energy, decrease stress, bring laughter to your heart, health to your body and peace to your mind.