What Exactly Is Metabolic Syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome is a common health issue present in about one in three American adults. Getting older and making unhealthy lifestyle choices make your risk factors for this condition go up, so it’s important to take action now and learn how you can avoid metabolic syndrome and its complications.

RegenMed Health Centers specializes in women’s and men’s health services to support your long-term wellness.

Ellen Lin, MD, also provides medical weight loss to reduce your risk of developing metabolic syndrome and other obesity-related health challenges.  Dr. Lin focuses on helping you achieve an ideal body mass index (BMI) and make lasting changes that protect against metabolic disease.

The basics of metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that simultaneously increase your risk for serious diseases. These conditions include:

• Abnormal cholesterol and triglyceride levels
• High blood sugar
• Elevated blood pressure
• Excess fat around the waist

People with metabolic syndrome may also develop an apple-shaped body, meaning they carry much of their weight around the abdomen and have a larger waist.

Poor management of these conditions significantly increases your risk for stroke, type 2 diabetes, and heart disease.

Causes of metabolic syndrome

Lifestyle habits and diet choices are strongly associated with metabolic syndrome. High blood sugar levels and increased blood pressure are also related to obesity. When you carry too much weight, your heart and other systems must work harder to keep you alive.

Insulin resistance also plays a role in metabolic syndrome. In a healthy body, your digestive system breaks down the foods you eat for energy. 

The insulin hormone helps convert and store sugar in the cells as fuel. When you have insulin resistance, this process doesn’t work well and increases sugar levels in your blood.

Other diseases that contribute to metabolic syndrome include sleep apnea and nonalcoholic fatty liver disease. Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may also be prone to metabolic syndrome.

Five strategies to get your health back on track

Whether you’ve been diagnosed with metabolic syndrome or you’re taking a proactive approach to prevent it, there are lifestyle changes you should make now to get your health back on track.

Here are five ways to get started:

1. Get 30 minutes of exercise daily

Walking, swimming, and other low-impact activities are great ways to jumpstart your metabolism and burn excess body fat.

Aim for at least 30 minutes of exercise every day. This is also a great time to make more mindful choices, such as taking the stairs instead of the elevator, to increase daily activity levels.

2. Eat well-balanced meals

A healthy diet should include many fresh vegetables, high-fiber whole grains, and lean proteins. Find a few recipes that fit your tastes and shop with your meal plans in mind.

3. Learn stress management techniques

Always being stressed out increases your blood pressure levels and takes a toll on your mental health. Try yoga, meditation, and other mindfulness activities that help you manage stress healthily.

4. Get medical weight loss support

When diet and lifestyle changes aren’t making a difference in your weight, our medical weight loss program can help.

Dr. Lin creates a plan that includes nutritional counseling, exercise tips, and supplements. Medications may also be necessary to support your metabolism.

5. Quit smoking

If you smoke, ask Dr. Lin for smoking cessation resources you can use to quit for good.

Call RegenMed Health Centers in San Antonio, Texas, today to schedule a medical weight loss consultation or to book an appointment online.