Metabolic Syndrome and Diabetes

Metabolic Syndrome – A Deadly Chain of Events

According to government figures, approximately 64 million Americans have what is now called Metabolic Syndrome, also known as insulin resistance. This syndrome doubles the risk of heart disease and increases the risk of Type II Diabetes by 30% or more. “It’s a chain from obesity to diabetes to heart disease,” said Dr. David Herber, director of UCLA’s Center for Human Nutrition. “In the next 10 years, 80% of all heart disease will be due to Type II Diabetes.”

Indicators of Metabolic Syndrome include: Abdominal obesity, which is indicated by a waist measurement of >40” for men and >35” for women, elevated triglycerides of >150 mgs per deciliter or more, low HDL (the ‘good’ cholesterol) <40 mgs per deciliter for men, <50 in women, high blood pressure >130/85, and higher than average fasting blood sugar, 110-125 mgs per deciliter.

Currently, each of the individual issues are still being dealt with one by one, instead of one linked problem since one type of medicine has not been developed to treat them all at once. However, it is strongly recommended by health experts to take care of this the low tech way, through diet and exercise. The best news is that even a weight loss of 12-16 pounds can yield significant improvement in cholesterol and blood pressure. What to do? Get a tape measure, measure your waist, and get serious about losing weight!

Emed Comment:

Metabolic Syndrome is another term becoming increasing prevalent. Dr. Sandra Cabot’s books devote special attention to “Metabolic Syndrome” which is essentially driven by insulin resistance and the inability to control weight.

Metabolic Syndrome and insulin resistance is driven by excessive consumption of refined carbohydrates. Refined carbohydrates contain alot of calories and very little nutrtional value. Do not eat them! It is not worth it.