When various signs of metabolic syndrome occur in a particular individual, it is believed to lead to an increased possibility of cardiovascular disease and diabetes. What defines “metabolic syndrome” varies between different health organizations. However, it is agreed that the key features are insulin resistance, high blood glucose, and high blood pressure, triglyceride and cholesterol levels. Those who have signs of metabolic syndrome are typically obese, with the weight concentrated around their abdomen (it is described as having an “apple shape”). This condition occurs in 20-30% of the population in industrialized countries. It is believed to be caused by both genetics and unhealthy lifestyles that include lack of exercise and weight gain. Other risk factors include smoking, excessive intake of carbohydrates, and smoking. Women who are post-menopausal are also at greater risk. The chance of developing metabolic syndrome increases with the age of the individual, and a high body mass …

Diabetes and Metabolic Syndrome are two disorders that individuals can experience simultaneously due to the risk factors for both diseases being so similar. One disease does not cause the other, but factors that cause one disease can cause both disease. For example, risk factors for both diseases are having a family history of Type 2 diabetes mellitus. If a sibling or parent has diabetes, then odds are increased that the individual will develop diabetes and metabolic syndrome.

The diseases are also similar in that they both occur as a result from impairment in a chemical process. While metabolism regulates all chemical processes in the body including absorption, conversion, and production of energy from molecules and nutrients, insulin helps transfer the energy into the cells for utilization. When either of these processes is defunct, effects on blood glucose and energy levels can detrimental, leading to metabolic syndrome and diabetes.

Diabetes is …