Metabolic syndrome X is called such because the risk factors of dyslipidemia, hypertension, and hyperglycemia cluster together, representing a syndrome rather than a single entity or disease. Metabolic syndrome X is frequently called metabolic syndrome in the cardiovascular field, identifying the increased risk of type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease (CVD). The causes of metabolic syndrome X are unknown however there are three factors that are attributed to the development of metabolic syndrome: inherited genes, being overweight, and physical inactivity. Insulin resistance is thought to be an inherited genetic tendency that becomes exacerbated by a lack of physical activity and weight gain. Evidence also suggests that a diet high in carbohydrates (60% of daily caloric intake from carbohydrates) can lead to metabolic syndrome X.
The metabolic syndrome X symptoms of hypertension, obesity, insulin resistance, and dyslipidemia are also risk factors for CVD and diabetes. Compounding the risk of CVD is …