Understanding Metabolic Syndrome
Metabolic Syndrome is the name given for a collection of health problems occurring within an individual. Together these health problems put you at a much greater risk for heart disease, stroke and Type 2 diabetes. The health problems associated with metabolic syndrome are closely linked to your weight and level of physical activity.
Learn about metabolic syndrome from Dr, a Board Certified in Family Medicine with more than 25 years of experience.
What Health Problems Increase My Risk for Metabolic Syndrome?
When you have three or more of the following biometric risk factors, you’re considered to have metabolic syndrome.
- High blood pressure equal to or higher than 130/85 (or you are on medication to treat high blood pressure)
- High fasting blood glucose equal to or higher than 100mg/dl (or you are on medication to treat high blood sugar)
- Waist circumference 40 inches or more for men or 35 inches or more for women
- HDL (Good) Cholesterol less than 40mg/dL for men or less than 50 for women (or you are on medication to treat low HDL cholesterol)
- High Triglycerides of 150 or more (or you are on medication to treat high triglycerides)
How Do I Prevent or Manage Metabolic Syndrome?
Making modifications to your lifestyle can help control risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome. Some of the ways to reduce your risk include;
- Weight loss by at least 10% in the next 6-12 months. For example, if your starting weight is 200 pounds, a 10 percent weight loss equals 20 pounds, bringing your weight down to 180 pounds.
- Increase physical activity to 150 minutes of moderate aerobic exercise per week, as approved by your doctor.
- Maintain a healthy diet through limiting saturated and trans fats, such as fatty beef, pork, processed and fried foods while eating more fruits, vegetables, fish and whole grains.
Quick Link to Learn How You Can Take Action
Making a lifestyle change
Healthy Eating Recipes
Lowering Your Blood Pressure With DASH
Tips To Get Active
Losing Weight: Getting Started
If lifestyle changes are not enough, your doctor may suggest medications to help control blood pressure, cholesterol and blood glucose levels.
For additional help managing metabolic syndrome, you can talk to a Condition Management nurse or enroll in the Condition Management program, if eligible.
The information provided should not take the place of seeking medical advice or following prescribed guidelines set by your doctor. Please consult with your doctor to ensure that the changes you are making to your diet or physical activity are safe.
Resources:
American Heart Association
National Institutes of Health
Mayo Clinic
Money Saving Tip 
By managing metabolic risk factors, you could save, on average, $2,506 annually on medical costs compared to an individual who is not managing metabolic risk factors.
Source: Based on 2014 Healthy Options claims data
