A constellation of diseases called metabolic syndrome increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. Typical metabolic syndrome components:
Central obesity (abdominal fat) is a hallmark of metabolic syndrome. This metabolically active fat can cause insulin resistance.
Hypertension: Metabolic syndrome often includes hypertension. It raises heart disease and stroke risks.
Insulin resistance (hyperglycemia): Cells don't respond to insulin adequately, causing high blood sugar. A precursor to type 2 diabetes.
Low HDL Cholesterol: HDL is normally considered "good" cholesterol. Low HDL cholesterol increases heart disease and stroke risk.
Not everyone with metabolic syndrome has all of these components, although three or more is typical. Genetics, insulin resistance, obesity, and inactivity may induce metabolic syndrome.
High blood fat: Triglycerides. Elevated levels raise cardiovascular disease risk.
A balanced diet, more exercise, and weight loss are usually needed to manage metabolic syndrome. Medication can also regulate metabolic syndrome symptoms like blood pressure and sugar. Preventing metabolic syndrome consequences requires early detection and treatment.