Metabolic Syndrome

Summary Metabolic syndrome is a medical condition characterized by unhealthy and markedly deranged metabolism. Over 50% of United States adults have metabolic syndrome and another 40% are at risk of developing it (90% of US adults!). Metabolic syndrome is the great killer of our time, a global pandemic, and the leading risk factor for most all major chronic diseases. Story Chronic diseases are contagious. This is because thoughts and behaviors are contagious. As fast food companies, ultra-processed food, soda and other sugar sweetened beverages, and the American lifestyle spreads around the globe, so too does metabolic syndrome. Key Points 1 Metabolic syndrome is both caused by and can be cured by the way a person lives their life (behaviors). 2. Insulin resistance, unhealthy cholesterol, high blood pressure, and weight gain are symptoms of metabolic syndrome. 3. The risk of multiple chronic diseases including diabetes, heart attacks, strokes, and even cancer is increased in those with metabolic syndrome. 4. Avoiding ultra-processed foods, exercising regularly, sleeping adequately, and managing stress are the best ways to prevent and treat metabolic syndrome. References -https://www.nhlbi.nih.gov/health/metabolic-syndrome/diagnosis - Lustig, Robert. Metabolical: The Lure and Lies of Processed Food, Nutrition, and Modern Medicine. Harper Wave, 2021. - Saklayen MG. The Global Epidemic of the Metabolic Syndrome. Curr Hypertens Rep. 2018 - Lemieux I, Després J-P. Metabolic Syndrome: Past, Present and Future. Nutrients. 2020 - Shi TH, Wang B, Natarajan S. The Influence of Metabolic Syndrome in Predicting Mortality Risk Among US Adults: Importance of Metabolic Syndrome Even in Adults With Normal Weight. Prev Chronic Dis. 2020. - https://www.heart.org/en/health-topics/metabolic-syndrome/symptoms-and-diagnosis-of-metabolic-syndrome