Metabolic Syndrome- What's That?

Have you heard of "metabolic syndrome"? You should have, because almost one fourth of American adults- 47 million- have it! In fact, metabolic syndrome is passing smoking as the number one risk factor of heart disease in America. That's the BAD news. The GOOD news is that with lifestyle changes, you can reverse or at least delay onset of metabolic syndrome.

So, what is it? It is not your "metabolism", although it sounds like that. Metabolic syndrome occurs when you have three or more of the following:

A. Large waistline (>40” M; >35” F)
B. High triglycerides (similar to cholesterol)* (>150)
C. Low HDL* (the good cholesterol) (<40 men; <50 women)
D. HIgh Blood Pressure* (>130 top number or > 85 bottom)
E. High fasting blood sugar* (> 100)

The * means that if you are on medications for any of these conditions, it "counts", regardless of your current numbers.

What's the answer? Ultimately, weight loss is the answer. Start by moving MORE, and eating MORE vegetables and fruits.

BOTTOM LINE: If you have high cholesterol or are overweight, SEE YOUR DOCTOR and ask about metabolic syndrome, and what you specifically need to do to avoid or reverse it!