Metabolic syndrome is one of the most pressing problems of modern health care, associated with a set of disorders in the work of metabolism. The main manifestations of metabolic syndrome are usually considered to be obesity, high blood pressure, as well as changes in cholesterol and blood sugar levels. That is why early detection of metabolic syndrome and timely measures to correct it help to significantly reduce the risks of severe cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes.
Metabolic syndrome often occurs in people with low physical activity, who consume large amounts of fatty foods high in carbohydrates, such as baked goods, fast food and sweets. The development of metabolic syndrome is preceded by excess weight gain – predominantly fat accumulation in the abdominal area.
Consequences of metabolic syndrome
Without proper treatment and lifestyle adjustments, metabolic syndrome can lead to a number of serious complications:
- Type 2 diabetes mellitus
With long-term insulin resistance, the pancreas becomes exhausted and blood glucose levels are steadily elevated. This precipitates the development of type 2 diabetes, which is characterized by chronically elevated sugar levels and the risk of vascular and target organ damage.
- Cardiovascular disease
Elevated levels of “bad” cholesterol and high blood pressure contribute to atherosclerosis, coronary heart disease, strokes and heart attacks.
- Fatty hepatosis
Excess fat deposition in the liver negatively affects its function and increases the likelihood of progression to cirrhosis.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome
In women, metabolic syndrome can exacerbate hormonal disruptions, leading to menstrual irregularities and reproductive problems.
- Overall deterioration in quality of life
Excess weight and chronic disease are accompanied by rapid fatigue, shortness of breath with minimal exertion, decreased performance and increased risk of depression.
How to fight metabolic syndrome?
In most cases, the fight against metabolic syndrome requires a comprehensive approach: dietary changes, increased physical activity, correction of hormonal background (if necessary) and regular medical supervision. Let’s consider the main directions in the treatment and prevention of metabolic syndrome.
1. Changing eating habits
- Balanced diet
The basis of a healthy diet consists of vegetables, fruits, lean meat, poultry, fish, cereals and whole grain products. In metabolic syndrome, it is important to control the total number of calories and the proportion of fast carbohydrates. For example, replace regular baked goods and sweets with fruits or nuts, and saturated fats (confectionery fat, butter in large quantities) with vegetable oils (olive oil, flaxseed oil).
- Avoiding “empty” calories
Under “empty” calories are understood products that contain almost no useful nutrients: carbonated drinks with sugar, candy, chips and other types of fast food. Their consumption should be limited as much as possible.
- Regular meals
To maintain stable blood sugar levels, it is recommended to eat 4-5 times a day in small portions, avoiding overeating at night.
2. Increasing physical activity levels
- Regular exercise
Moderate physical activity (brisk walking, yoga, swimming, cycling) for at least 150 minutes per week helps improve insulin sensitivity and strengthen the cardiovascular system.
- Strength training
Exercise in the gym or with weights (including home workouts with dumbbells) helps build muscle mass and speeds up metabolism.
- Active lifestyle
Try to move more in your daily life: take the stairs instead of the elevator, go for walks during your lunch break, warm up during office work.
3. Medication therapy
- Drugs that improve insulin sensitivity
In some cases, doctors prescribe metformin or other hypoglycemic drugs that lower blood glucose levels and improve the effectiveness of insulin.
- Medications to control blood pressure
For hypertension, your doctor may prescribe ACE inhibitors, calcium channel blockers, or other groups of blood pressure-lowering medications.
- Drugs to correct the lipid profile
With pronounced dyslipidemia, statins or fibrates, which regulate the levels of cholesterol and triglycerides, may be required.
Prescribed drugs should only be prescribed by a doctor, taking into account the individual characteristics of the patient’s body, comorbidities and possible contraindications.
4. Controlling stress and sleep quality
- Stress management
Relaxation techniques, breathing exercises, meditation and regular rest help normalize cortisol levels that contribute to weight gain.
- Quality sleep
Lack of sleep (less than 7-8 hours per night) negatively affects satiety and increases appetite, which can worsen metabolic disorders in the long run.
Treatment of metabolic syndrome
Treatment of metabolic syndrome is complex and includes both medication and non-medication methods. First of all, the patient is recommended:
- Complete avoidance of unhealthy habits;
- Maintaining optimal physical activity;
- Adherence to a drinking regime (it is necessary to drink 2-2.5 liters of pure water per day);
- Normalization of diet with the exclusion of easily digestible carbohydrates, fast food, canned food, sweet sodas.
These measures will gradually stabilize the level of glucose and harmful fractions of lipids in the blood, adjust metabolism, and reduce body weight.
If the effectiveness of lifestyle correction is insufficient, as well as with a pronounced metabolic syndrome, a course of drug therapy is prescribed. The endocrinologist prescribes drugs to eliminate individual symptoms and normalize metabolic processes. These can be:
- Statins to lower blood cholesterol levels;
- Hypotensive drugs;
- Drugs to reduce insulin resistance;
- Drugs for the treatment of obesity, etc.
If there are concomitant disorders, such as gout, appropriate therapy is prescribed.
Conclusion
Metabolic syndrome is a serious health condition that can lead to severe complications, including type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, and liver damage. However, with timely detection and a comprehensive approach to treatment, it is possible to manage and even prevent its progression. Key strategies include adopting a balanced diet, increasing physical activity, managing stress, improving sleep quality, and, when necessary, using medication to control symptoms. By making these lifestyle changes and following medical recommendations, individuals can significantly reduce the risk of complications associated with metabolic syndrome, ultimately improving their overall health and quality of life.
