Metabolic syndrome 101!

This week I am raising awareness about what metabolic syndrome is, and most importantly what we can do to prevent it!

Metabolic syndrome affects around 1 in 3 adults over the age of 50 (UK statistics), and cases in younger people are increasing. This calls for greater education on the topic, and most importantly, how we can improve our health to live a happier life.

What is it?

Metabolic syndrome is the term used when an individual has a combination of diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity.

Having metabolic syndrome puts individuals at a much higher risk of getting cardiovascular disease, having strokes as well as several other serious health conditions.

This is because diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity can cause damage to blood vessels. This can vary, sometimes blood vessels become stiff, and sometimes blood vessel walls become weak, both of which can cause health complications.

How is it diagnosed?

The NHS criteria includes:

• Being overweight or having a lot of fat around the waist.

• Having high LDL cholesterol and/or high triglycerides.

• Having a blood pressure of 140/90mmHg or higher

• The inability to control blood sugar levels (also referred to as insulin resistance or type 2 diabetes).

If you are concerned about your health, or any of the points above, make an appointment with your doctor now!

Prevention and action is key!

Most importantly metabolic syndrome can indeed be prevented and reversed! So if you have been diagnosed, it is time to take action for your health!

Here are some ways you can help yourself:

• Losing weight
• Exercising for at least 30 minutes everyday – try to complete a variety of cardio, weight lifting and yoga based training for the maximum benefits.
• Eat a rainbow diet rich in fibre, fruit and vegetables
• Limit your packaged and processed food intake – opt for fresh food
• Stop adding sugar and table salt to your food
• Quit smoking
• Limit your alcohol consumption
• Increase your water intake to around 2.5L a day

I know for some people this is very simplified, but to change your lifestyle, it has to be achievable!

Thank you for reading Metabolic disorder 101! I hope you found this interesting and useful. Be sure to subscribe and follow me on Instagram!

If you liked this post, be sure to check out Been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes? Here’s what to do! and What is the deal with cooking oils