Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of conditions including high blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess body weight around the waist and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels that occur together, increasing a person’s risk of having heart disease, a stroke and diabetes. Having one of these health issues does not mean that a person has metabolic syndrome. However, having one of these health issues increases a person’s risk of getting a serious disease. Having more than one of these issues increases the risk even more.
Metabolic syndrome is closely linked to being overweight, obese and inactive. It can also be looked at as a precursor to diabetes in some people. If a person has metabolic syndrome or any of its components, aggressive lifestyle changes can delay or stop a person from developing a serious health problem. Lifestyle changes include, eating a healthy diet and being involved in an exercise program. By making those lifestyle changes, the individual will hopefully lose weight and improve their overall conditioning, leading to a reduction in blood pressure and sugar levels.
If a person does not look at metabolic syndrome as a serious health condition and make the appropriate lifestyle changes, they are at high risk of developing diabetes. Diabetes adds additional risk to a person’s health including a higher risk of heart problems, stroke, kidney problems, vision problems and a high risk of amputation.
It is advisable for individuals that have any of the above mentioned health issues or metabolic syndrome to take action before it is too late. Many of these symptoms can be rectified by lifestyle changes. This includes being involved in a weight reduction program and a suitable exercise regime. The exercise program should start at a low level for individuals that have any of the above mentioned health problems and progress slowly over time. Cardiovascular exercise, weight training and flexibility exercises are recommended. People that have metabolic syndrome should be tested for diabetes before commencing with an exercise program.
Metabolic syndrome is a serious health problem and should be taken seriously. Making lifestyle changes upon diagnosis is important in order to avoid more serious health problems. All individuals should consult with their Doctor before commencing with an exercise program.
Reference: mayoclininc.org, Metabolic Syndrome.