Over the years we have had several clients come to us because they had recently been told by their doctors that they had (or were approaching) metabolic syndrome.  You’ve probably heard of this condition, but you may not completely understand what it is.  The best way to think about metabolic syndrome is as an advanced warning system. We can compare it to the lights and warning sounds at a railroad crossing.

This railroad warning system is telling you that unless you respond appropriately (you should stop your car before you drive across the tracks), you will risk being hit by a train.

That is exactly what metabolic syndrome is. It is a warning system that lets you know unless you respond appropriately to the warning signs; you are going to be putting your health in danger.

What is Metabolic Syndrome?

It’s called a syndrome because it isn’t a formal disease per se. Rather, it is a cluster of conditions that signal and lead to chronic and life-threatening illnesses. There are several conditions involved and in order to be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome you must have at least three of them.  

These conditions include:

• A waistline of 40 inches or more for men and 35 inches or more for women (measured across the belly)
• A blood pressure of 130/85 mm Hg or higher or are taking blood pressure medications
• A triglyceride level above 150 mg/dl
• A fasting blood glucose (sugar) level greater than 100 mg/dl or are taking glucose-lowering medications
• A high-density lipoprotein level (HDL) less than 40 mg/dl (men) or under 50 mg/dl (women) ¹

Even if you are just barely in the risk categories of three conditions, such as having slightly high blood pressure, slightly increased blood sugar and a belly measurement of just over 35 (for women) and 40 (for men) inches, you are still in the danger zone. Your body is signaling to you that the environment inside your blood vessels, heart and other organs is toxic and under great duress. Even though it is still early, damage is occurring.  The lights are flashing; the horns sound.

What is the risk? 

So what’s the danger? What is this toxic environment producing? Someone with metabolic syndrome is at high risk for developing heart disease, diabetes, stroke, kidney problems, blood clots, reduced insulin production and even dementia.

The most at-risk people are those who have extra fat in their abdomen and waist, who have a family history of diabetes, and who have skin changes called acanthosis nigricans (darkened skin on the back of their neck or under their arms) and skin tags (usually on the neck).

Reversing Metabolic Syndrome: You can do this!

And now for glorious news: metabolic syndrome is not only preventable, but even if you already have it, you can reverse it with lifestyle changes.

The first thing to do is lose any extra weight that you are carrying. I know this is difficult – but Empower is here to help. We recommend eating a whole-foods, balanced diet that is high lean proteins & vegetables, as well as some fruit and nuts.  Of course, limit the processed stuff!  You really are what you eat! If you would like help to create a nutrition plan that will help you lose weight and feel great, we highly recommend you schedule a FREE get to know you session with our Registered Dietitian, Michael Raynor. Remember, weight loss is probably 80% diet and 20% exercise.  

Second, be sure to get regular exercise (at least 150 minutes per week). Not only will this burn extra calories and help to prevent further weight gain, but it will really condition and strengthen your cardiovascular system. You will also use insulin more efficiently as you increase your exercise. There is also good evidence that metabolic training is helpful in preventing or fighting metabolic syndrome – so if you have any of the conditions listed above, please ask your trainer about it. If you aren’t currently working with a trainer – we know of some great ones who can help you! Sign up for a FREE initial session today!

Preventing and reversing metabolic syndrome is a lifelong commitment:  

You are changing your lifestyle.  If you already have some of the warning signs, respect those signs as you respect the flashing lights and blaring horns of a railroad crossing. It’s time to take action, and we are here to help!

Sources:  

¹ http://my.clevelandclinic.org/disorders/metabolic_syndrome/hic_metabolic_syndrome.aspx