What is Metabolic Syndrome?
Metabolic syndrome (syndroma metabolicum), also known as insulin resistance syndrome or Syndrome X, is not a disease but a condition characterized by a set of highly risky health factors. These include abdominal (visceral) obesity, high blood pressure, dyslipidemia (lower concentration of HDL, or “good cholesterol”), elevated triglyceride levels, and increased blood glucose levels.
Why Is Metabolic Syndrome the Disease of Modern Humans?
An unbalanced and unhealthy diet, little to no physical activity, insufficient sleep, and constant exposure to stress are hallmarks of modern life. In the rush of the morning, modern individuals often opt for quick breakfasts, typically bakery products or other forms of “fast food,” replacing a nutritious breakfast with something more convenient. This habit inadvertently introduces foods with a high glycemic index (GI)—those that release high concentrations of sugar into the bloodstream shortly after consumption.
This pattern often extends to other daily meals, such as lunch or dinner. Initially, the body compensates, and the pancreas secretes enough insulin to process the sugar. However, if this bad habit persists for years, the pancreas will eventually weaken and fail to produce sufficient insulin, leaving excess sugar in the bloodstream. Consequently, cells become resistant to insulin’s effects, leading to insulin resistance—a hallmark of metabolic syndrome.
Metabolic Syndrome Parameters
| Parameter | Threshhold |
|---|---|
| Waist circumference | >80 cm for women, >94 cm for men |
| Blood pressure | >140/90 mmHg |
| Low serum HDL (“good cholesterol”) | <1.03 mmol/L for women, <1.29 mmol/L for men |
| Elevated serum triglycerides | >1.7 mmol/L |
| Fasting serum glucose | >5.6 mmol/L or diagnosed diabetes |
Risks of Metabolic Syndrome
Individuals with metabolic syndrome are 2 to 4 times more likely to develop cardiovascular diseases, primarily heart attacks and strokes, and are 20 times more likely to develop diabetes. Due to chronic inflammatory processes in blood vessels, metabolic syndrome significantly accelerates atherosclerosis.
As part of metabolic syndrome, obesity often leads to sleep apnea syndrome (a breathing disorder during sleep). It also increases the risk of certain malignancies, such as endometrial, colon, and breast cancers. Recent studies even link it to the development of Alzheimer’s disease.
Is Metabolic Syndrome Treatable?
Yes! Given the long-term cardiovascular risk associated with metabolic syndrome, therapy for its components should begin as soon as possible based on the individual’s cardiovascular risk profile.
- For individuals with low risk: Lifestyle changes, including weight reduction and increased physical activity, are recommended.
- For moderate risk: Pharmacological therapy may be introduced as needed.
- For high risk: Medications for treating hyperlipoproteinemia are prescribed.
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