Metabolic Syndrome

In US more than 40% could be affected by metabolic syndrome in the 50 and older age group. Also known as the beer belly syndrome or syndrome X, it involves a combination of physiological abnormalities.

3 out of 5 of the following factors will help you understand that you are in a situation of metabolic syndrome.

Insulin resistance is considered the primary cause. It is responsible for regulating our energy and blood sugar levels

Abdominal obesity typically presents as visible visceral fat. For men, it involves having a waist circumference of more than 94 cm, while for women, it's a waist circumference of more than 80 cm Insulin Resistance: To determine if you have metabolic syndrome, I recommend regularly monitoring your fasting blood sugar levels. If your blood glucose level is higher than 1 g/L (or 6.1 mmol/L), it indicates insulin resistance.

Glucose serves as the fuel for our cells, transforming into energy within our bodies. Insulin, secreted by the pancreas, facilitates this transformation. It plays a crucial role in regulating our sugar levels and lowering blood glucose

High Blood Pressure: Typically, most individuals with metabolic syndrome experience elevated blood pressure. To calculate your systolic blood pressure, it should be over 130 mmHg. As for diastolic blood pressure, it should be higher than 85 mmHg.

High Triglyceride Levels: If your blood has a level exceeding 140 mg/dL (or 1.6 mmol/L), you may be at risk of having metabolic syndrome.

Low Cholesterol Levels: When your HDL cholesterol level is below 40 mg/dL (1.04 mmol/L) for women and below 50 mg/dL (1.29 mmol/L) for men, you fall into the one in five French individuals with this condition. HDL is referred to as the 'good' cholesterol level.