Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that occur together and increase your risk of serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

 

Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions that occur together and increase your risk of serious health problems like heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.

To be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome, a person typically has at least three of the following five risk factors:

1. High waist circumference (abdominal obesity)

   • Too much fat around the stomach area

   • Common cutoffs: over 40 inches for men, over 35 inches for women

2. High blood pressure

   • 130/85 mmHg or higher, or taking medication for hypertension

3. High blood sugar (fasting glucose)

   • 100 mg/dL or higher, or on medication for high blood sugar

4. High triglycerides

   • 150 mg/dL or higher, or taking medication for high triglycerides

5. Low HDL ("good") cholesterol

   • Less than 40 mg/dL for men or 50 mg/dL for women

Why It Matters:

Metabolic syndrome is a red flag that your body is struggling with insulin resistance, inflammation, and poor metabolic health. Without changes in lifestyle, it can lead to chronic diseases.

The good news?

Metabolic syndrome can often be reversed or managed with changes in:

• Diet (low sugar, high fiber, healthy fats)

• Physical activity

• Weight management

• Sleep and stress control