What is Metabolic Syndrome?
What is metabolic syndrome?
I blame the Make America Healthy Again (MAHA) movement for bringing this one up. Apparently, it was one of the most googled nutrition questions last week, which we all know can lead to misinformation and conspiracy theories. So, I wanted to conduct a research-driven deep dive into what metabolic syndrome is and what it means for the general population. If you were on social media last week and were told that you probably have metabolic syndrome, this one is for you.
Ok but really, what is metabolic syndrome?
Metabolic syndrome is a blanket diagnosis for having some form of co-occurring high blood pressure, high blood sugar, obesity, and high triglycerides (a type of cholesterol). These health conditions can occur together due to the connection between blood sugar, blood pressure, and heart health. Metabolic syndrome can also be thought of as a precursor to Type 2 diabetes and it usually occurs when a person is insulin resistant and developing prediabetes.
What are the risks of having metabolic syndrome?
Metabolic syndrome increases your risk of having a heart attack, stroke, diabetes, or cancer in the future. Especially because it goes undiagnosed frequently, or in my opinion, because there isn’t enough focus on preventative healthcare and counseling, metabolic syndrome could be simmering in the background for quite a while before it becomes a chronic condition like the ones outlined above.
What causes metabolic syndrome?
A lot of individual factors can contribute to developing metabolic syndrome or prediabetes but in general, these are common drivers:
Highly processed foods with little protein or fiber that spike blood sugar
Refined carbohydrates
Inadequate access to healthy, fresh foods
Chronic elevated stress
Lack of sleep, movement
Genetics, ethnicity (which I also link back to equality and access to healthy foods)
This sounds scary, what can I do?
There’s a lot you can do! And we’re here to help if you get stuck or need a more personalized nutrition plan.
Restore nutrient levels, especially zinc, magnesium, chromium, and omega-3 fatty acids
Avoid artificial sweeteners, highly processed and refined foods, and simple carbohydrates that don’t have fiber or protein
Aim for more fiber daily
Sleep! As much as you can, but if you struggle with insomnia know that non-sleep deep rest is also beneficial.
Find movement that you enjoy and can do on a regular basis that feels good in your body
If you don’t like to work out, try high intensity interval training- it takes less time and is very effective so you can get on with your life
Many, many factors affect blood sugar, blood pressure, and cholesterol and only some of them are actually related to nutrition! At Well Fed Wellness we take a nutrition and lifestyle medicine approach to support you holistically. If the above feels daunting, reach out! We can help you improve not only your lab work but your overall well-being.
Before You Go!
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