Central Peninsula | Fall 2021

Perhaps you’ve heard the term metabolic syndrome but have no idea what it means or why it even matters. The following Q & A will help you understand the syn- drome and why it’s crucial to know if you or a loved one are at risk for it. Q : What is metabolic syndrome? A: Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of health conditions that often occur together and raise the risk for serious problems such as heart disease, type 2 diabetes and stroke. To be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, you must have three or more of these health conditions: ● A large waistline. ● A high triglyceride level—or you’re on medicine to treat high triglycerides. Triglycerides are a type of blood fat. ● A low HDL cholesterol level—or you’re on medicine to treat low HDL cholesterol. ● High blood pressure—or you’re on medicine to treat high blood pressure. ● High fasting blood sugar—or you’re on medicine to treat high blood sugar. Q : Who is at risk for metabolic syndrome? A: Several factors increase the likelihood of getting meta- bolic syndrome: A Q&A on metabolic syndrome: Learn the facts ● Too many pounds. Excessive fat in and around the ab- domen is most strongly linked with metabolic syndrome. ● Insulin resistance. This happens when the body can’t use insulin efficiently. Insulin resistance raises the risk for type 2 diabetes. ● Race and gender. African American men are less likely to have metabolic syndrome than white men, while African American women are more likely to have it than white women. Q : How can I prevent metabolic syndrome? A: These steps can help: ● Eat a healthy diet. Focus on eating whole grains, fruits, vegetables, lean meats, skinless poultry, low-fat or fat-free dairy products, and fish that isn’t fried. Avoid foods high in saturated and trans fats, sodium, and added sugars. ● Be active. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderately vigorous physical activity per week. One easy way to get started? Take a walk. Even a short stroll, several times a day, will help you meet your goal. ● Shed some weight if you need to. Balance healthy eating with a healthy level of exercise to reach your weight goals. Sources: American Heart Association; National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute 6 Central Peninsula Hospital