Metabolic Syndrome: Natural and Alternative Medicine

Metabolic Syndrome is the name given to the presence of a group of five different disorders of metabolism that, although they can occur independently of each other, tend to occur as groups of two or more conditions. The U.S. National Heart Lung and Blood Institute estimates that 46 million Americans have Metabolic Syndrome and, further, that it predicts that this condition might one day become a greater public health concern than smoking.

According to current medical guidelines, Metabolic Syndrome can be diagnosed when three or more of the following conditions are confirmed as being present at the same time:

* A large waistline, defined as a waist circumference greater than 102 centimeters (40 in) in men and greater than 88 centimeters (35 in) in women)

* A fasting blood glucose (blood sugar) level of greater than 100. Note that in December, 2009, the American Diabetes Association now recommends that the Hemoglobin A1c blood test be used in screening for both type 1 and 2 diabetes. Hemoglobin A1c levels greater than 6.5% are now considered to be diagnostic of type 2 diabetes in adults.

* Hypertension, defined as a consistently elevated diastolic pressure ("the bottom number") of 90 or greater

* A fasting total blood triglyceride level of or more than 200

* A LDL cholesterol ("good cholesterol") lower than 40 in men and lower than 50 in women.

Obviously, any one of the above conditions could easily double your chances of developing heart disease, and some estimate that having all five conditions could raise you risk of having a heart attack or stroke by as much as 20 times over someone of the same age and sex who does not have Metabolic Syndrome.

Controlling Metabolic Syndrome with Alternative and Complimentary Medicine

Medical research suggests that obesity seems to be the common factor in practically all cases of Metabolic Syndrome. Fortunately, obesity is the once factor that you can do the most about.

The most effective weight loss program known to medical science is quite simple to understand: lowering calorie intake while simultaneously burning more calories by exercising has been known to work wonders!

Of course, sometimes a little help is in order. Here are three natural products, available at any health food / vitamin retailer and at most pharmacies, which have been shown to be beneficial in the component conditions of Metabolic Syndrome.

Weight Loss: Chinese Green Tea

Although Green Tea is a known source of antioxidants, many have reported it to be effective in promoting weight loss when combined with dieting and an exercise program. Most reports suggest substituting Green Tea for coffee on a cup-for-cup basis. Green Tea extracts are also available commercially, but there are no reports concerning the extract form's usefulness in weight loss.

Type 2 Diabetes: Berberine

Berberine is a dietary supplement / natural remedy that lowers the body's insulin resistance and thus improves the efficiency with which the body can convert glucose to energy rather than fat. Berberine is found in the roots and stems of several plants, including Goldenseal, and has been used successfully for many years by Oriental Medicine practitioners to successfully treat type 2 diabetes. Berberine's effectiveness in lowering high levels of glucose in the bloodstream has also been documented by several reputable scientific studies. Berberine is commercially available in capsules / tablets of 200 or 250mg (depending on manufacturer) and is usually taken three times daily.

High Cholesterol / Lipid Levels: Red Yeast Rice

Although there is more than sufficient evidence which has demonstrated that Red Yeast Rice is just as effective as the "statins," this natural treatment is among the least known to the public. The most recent study not only demonstrated its effectiveness but also noted a lower incidence of side effects such as muscle weakness and gastrointestinal problems than with the prescription-only medications. The customary doe of red yeast rice extract is one 600mg capsule / tablet three times per day, with meals.

In summary, Metabolic Syndrome predisposes the individual to a number of long-term health risks. Fortunately, there are a number of available medication, both natural and prescription only, which can help control this condition.