Metabolic Syndrome

June 1, 2005

By Philip Zylstra, MD

Metabolic syndrome is an ongoing epidemic in our country. At least 25 percent of the general US population meets the criteria. Why is this important? Because, the syndrome is associated with a high risk of developing diabetes and heart disease.

To be diagnosed with this syndrome you need to meet at least three of five criteria:
1) A blood pressure of 130/85 and above or being on blood pressure medication
2) Abdominal obesity (measured by taking a tape measure around the middle of the abdomen) greater than 40 inches in men and 35 inches in women
3) Abnormal fasting lab tests
· An HDL (good cholesterol) of less than 40 in men and less than 50 in women
· Triglycerides, or fats of at least 150 or more
· A fasting blood sugar of 110 and above (under 100 is normal.)

The metabolic syndrome is also becoming increasingly common in children and adolescents. It is predicted, based on current trends, at least one out of three children born this century will become diabetic. This may possibly cause them to have a shorter life span than their parents. In the elderly, the metabolic syndrome has been associated with a decline in memory, if lab tests (such as C-Reactive Protein) show evidence of inflammation of the arteries.

Treatment of the metabolic syndrome rests on life style change, that is, diet and exercise.
The diet promoted is called the Mediterranean diet, which consists of the following:
At least seven servings of fruit and vegetables daily; whole grains, lean meats, low fat dairy products, canola or olive oil, tree nuts such as almonds or walnuts, and avoidance of sugars and “white starch” such as white bread, crackers and chips.

Exercise should be both aerobic and weight training. Aerobic exercise for most people can be accomplished by walking at least 5,000 steps (2.5 miles) as measured by a pedometer, on a daily basis. Lifting weights at home, a physically demanding job, or visiting your local gym at least three times a week can accomplish weight training.

The benefits of the lifestyle changes are at least a 30 percent reduction in the risk of developing diabetes. The change will also lower your risk of heart disease. See your doctor soon.