Metabolic syndrome consists of health problems like high blood pressure, excess fat, problematic cholesterol levels, and elevated blood sugar. To diagnose metabolic syndrome, patients undergo a physical examination along with numerous lab tests to identify health markers of the condition.
Lab tests can confirm a diagnosis, but they do not always offer a complete picture. Here are some things to consider if you have been diagnosed with metabolic syndrome.
Being overweight or obese often contributes to health issues, but with metabolic syndrome, the location of excess weight is a factor. People with an apple or pear shape to their bodies, meaning that their fat is mostly situated around the waist, have a higher chance of developing metabolic syndrome, as well as having an increased risk of heart disease and other ailments.
Do you sit for long periods on most days? If so, you have a higher risk of experiencing metabolic syndrome, despite any moderate daily physical activity you participate in. More and more people these days are finding themselves sitting for extended periods due to work and increasing screen time at home.
Exercise is a crucial component of a healthy lifestyle, but diet is a major factor in metabolic syndrome. In this case, research has found that focusing one’s diet on plants and plant-based foods can improve many of the conditions that compose metabolic syndrome. That does not mean that people must avoid problematic foods altogether, but significantly reducing one’s intake of meat, cheese, and sugary sweets can have a beneficial impact.
To get a handle on your cholesterol levels, try increasing consumption of dietary fibres via vegetables, fruits, beans, and whole grain carbohydrates. High-fibre foods also offer other benefits, as they create a feeling of fullness with fewer calories and enhance the digestive process.