Metabolic Syndrome: The Silent Epidemic

You've probably heard of other silent epidemics, but metabolic syndrome is one of the most dangerous disorders, especially since most adults who have it aren't aware of their condition. Approximately 25% of the adult population of the U.S. is afflicted with metabolic syndrome, which means that you could be one of the unlucky quarter.

People who are overweight and who fail to exercise regularly are the most at risk of developing metabolic syndrome, which is a precursor to various other medical problems. An unhealthy lifestyle can be dangerous in more ways than one, and you could be putting your body at great risk if you don't watch what you eat, take your blood pressure regularly, and exercise at least three times each week.

What Is Metabolic Syndrome?

According to the NCEP (National Cholesterol Education Panel), adults who express at least three of these characteristics are considered to have metabolic syndrome:

---Obesity
---High Triglyceride levels (over 150)
---Low HDL (less than 40)
---High Blood pressure (more than 130 over 85)
---High Fasting Blood Sugar (over 110)
---Insulin Resistance

Metabolic syndrome essentially means that possession of these symptoms puts you at an increased risk for heart and neurological diseases and disorders such as heart attack or stroke. It is important that if you have more than two of these traits, you see your doctor and figure out a way to correct the situation. One of the best ways to determine if you have metabolic syndrome is to keep track of your body's systems. Know if you have high blood pressure or low HDL so that you can attack a problem head-on if it arises.

What Causes Metabolic Syndrome?

A diet consisting of high fat content, lots of carbohydrates (particularly sugars), and more calories than recommended for your age and body weight are the main precursors to metabolic syndrome. Although the precise cause of this condition isn't always obvious, you should know that your lifestyle is the main culprit. The above factors combined with a lack of consistent physical activity will make this disorder worse, so you'll need to find ways to correct the underlying problems.

How Do I Prevent Metabolic Syndrome?

The best way to prevent metabolic syndrome is to stay healthy, though that is, of course, an obscure concept. It starts with regular visits to your doctor to monitor your blood sugar, blood pressure, cholesterol and Triglyceride levels. You can also learn how to take your blood sugar and your blood pressure at home, though this is only recommended if you have metabolic syndrome.

Next, make sure that you get plenty of exercise and that you see your doctor if you experience chest pains, headaches or other symptoms of heart or neurological problems. If you do have an unhealthy level of blood sugar, you should be tested for diabetes, as many overweight people develop a resistance to insulin, which many physicians believe is the main cause of metabolic syndrome.