Metabolic Syndrome: Why this Epidemic is Sweeping Across America

There is an epidemic of Metabolic syndrome sweeping across America. This may not mean much to the average person who doesn’t know exactly what Metabolic syndrome is, but it’s a big deal. 

“Metabolic syndrome is a “perfect storm” of conditions that include high blood pressure, abnormal cholesterol levels, increased levels of blood sugar, and a wider waist circumference .” [1]

Metabolic syndrome has been receiving more and more attention these days, and for very good reason. It represents systemic breakdown in the body that ought to be addressed sooner than later. That is, of course, if the individual is to maintain a reasonable quality of life.

Because Metabolic syndrome can affect so many vital organs and/or organ systems, it’s very important to recognize its onset. It is equally important to address every aspect — both symptoms and root causes — that are practically manageable. The sooner this syndrome is addressed by way of healthy lifestyle changes, holistic healing techniques and alternative therapies, the quicker normal living can be resumed.

“More than one-third of U.S. adults have a combination of health problems collectively known as Metabolic syndrome that increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes, according to new research.” [1]

Read: 6 Home Remedies for High Blood Pressure

More than 33% represents quite a large number of Americans who have Metabolic syndrome. It points directly to the many lifestyle choices that society as a whole has embraced over many decades. The same research also underscored the fact that the incidence of Metabolic syndrome steadily increases with age. Because of that fact, many more Baby Boomers are now developing it in their advancing years, as will the subsequent generations during their old age.

Social Pressures Often Pave the Way For Metabolic Syndrome

All through life we as individuals are confronted with myriad opportunities to conform with the dominant trends in American society. These pressures to conform occur within the family, in school, at the workplace, while attending all manner of social functions, etc. Likewise, we learn behaviors and model habits from these same groups of people over many years of exposure.

The familial pressure to eat a certain way is just one example of how the foods we grew up on may be the single greatest cause of Metabolic syndrome.

How to Prevent the ‘Perfect Storm’ that is Metabolic Syndrome

There are several cofactors which contribute to the onset of Metabolic syndrome, and eating improper foods in excessive amounts is perhaps the biggest one. For that reason, it is critical to educate those family members in the living environment about the need for a special diet, as well as certain prescribed cooking techniques.

Exercise and sleep patterns can likewise play a big part in Metabolic syndrome development. Here again, social pressures or family habits can prevent an individual from engaging those sports or workout routines which can aid in breaking the cycle of this syndrome. Especially when folks watch TV late in the evening, sleep (or a lack thereof) can become a determining factor.

Related: 7 Ways to Improve Your Heart Health

What are the primary risk factors for metabolic syndrome?

Primary Risk Factors

• Obesity, especially midsection fat (also known as abdominal or central obesity)
• Sustained elevated blood pressure
• Spiking blood sugar levels
• High triglyceride count
• Low levels of HDL (high-density lipoprotein) which are also known as the beneficial cholesterol
• High levels of LDLs (low-density lipoproteins)

(Source: TheHelathCoach1)

Of course, the medical risk factors listed above and the lifestyle cofactors shown below are two different yet very important angles concerning this syndrome. What, then, are the most influential cofactors which create the internal environment for those risk factors to manifest in patients who have been diagnosed with Metabolic syndrome?

As follows:

The Major Cofactors of Metabolic Syndrome

• Diet ~ Diet ~ Diet
• Lack of Proper Exercise
• Sedentary Lifestyle
• Mismanagement of Stress
• Over-reliance on Comfort Food
• Improper Food Combinations
• Aging
• Genetic Predispositions
(Source: TheHealthCoach1)

The good news here is that Metabolic syndrome is a condition which can be controlled and mitigated by paying close attention to each of these cofactors at home and work, as well as the risk factors identified in a medical setting. Focusing on diet and exercise in a disciplined manner can produce a quick and successful turnaround.

For those who are especially committed to following a holistic living regimen, not only can Metabolic syndrome be completely controlled, but robust health can be attained as well.

Sources:

[1] Metabolic syndrome increasingly common: What is it, and why worry?