What is 'Metabolic Syndrome'?

You may have heard this term on the news or read it in a magazine, and just know that it's BAD. You may also fit the criteria defined by the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute and the American Heart Association.

Diagnosis is based on having 3 or more of the following:

1. A waist circumference greater than 40 inches in men and 35 inches in women.
2. A blood pressure of 130/85 mm Hg or higher, or drug treatment for hypertension.
3. A triglyceride level of 150 mg/dL or higher, or drug treatment for elevated triglycerides.
4. A fasting blood glucose level of 100 mg/dL or higher, or drug treatment for elevated glucose.
5. A high density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol level less than 40 mg/dL for men or less than 50 mg/dL for women, or drug treatment for reduced HDL.

Those with 'Metabolic Syndrome' have a 5 fold relative risk of developing Diabetes if they don't already have it. Risks also include stroke and cardiovascular disease.

To reduce belly fat and improve lipid profiles and blood sugars: EXERCISE, eat healthier, lose weight, and to keep reading my blog :)