In order to understand the treatments for metabolic syndrome, it is important to know what causes this condition. Metabolic syndrome is diagnosed when a combination of other lifestyle type illnesses and risk factors are diagnosed in one person. There are several criteria than need to be met to be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome.

According to the International Diabetes Association, metabolic syndrome can be diagnosed when the BMI (body mass index) is above 30, and two of the following conditions are also present.

  • Increased Triglycerides greater than 150
  • Decreased HDL less than 50 in women and less than 40 in men
  • Diagnosed Hypertension greater than 130/85
  • Increased fasting blood glucose higher than 100 or diagnosed type II diabetes

 

If you meet these criteria and have not been diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, contact your physician. If you have this condition, it is important to understand the treatments for metabolic syndrome.

 

Treatments for Metabolic Syndrome, Revealed

 

There are several treatments for metabolic syndrome. Your physician will help you develop a treatment plan that works best for you. Often times, the first line of defense for treating metabolic syndrome includes making healthy lifestyle changes.

Most people with metabolic syndrome lead a sedentary lifestyle and eat unhealthy foods. Thus, your doctor will probably recommend that you start a regular exercise program. It is important to get at least 30 minutes of moderate activity a minimum of 3 to 4 times per week. This can be as simple as taking a brisk walk during your lunch break a few times per week.

Next, your doctor will probably recommend that you journal your food intake for a week or so. It is important to get a good understanding of what your current diet includes. You will then need to make changes and modifications to the way you eat.

It is a good idea to eat a diet high in unprocessed, natural, local foods. Consuming a diet high in veggies and whole grains, with a few servings of fruit and lean proteins each day is recommended. If you are unsure about how to make dietary changes, it would be wise to obtain a referral to work with a dietitian for a period of time.

Your physician will also want you to lose weight. Weight, specifically obesity, plays a huge role in metabolic syndrome.

 

Medical Treatments for Metabolic Syndrome

 

If lifestyle changes are not enough to help control metabolic syndrome, your physician may prescribe oral medications. These medications will be combined to address each underlying condition related to metabolic syndrome.

In the case of morbid obesity, your physician may also recommend gastric bypass surgery. It is important to understand the benefits and risks to each treatment option. Discuss treatments and alternative treatments with your physician. Remember, small lifestyle changes can have a huge affect on decreasing the ramifications of metabolic syndrome!