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Metabolic X Syndrome

Metabolic X Syndrome is a term used for a patient who presents with multiple conditions that puts them at risk for heart disease and diabetes.

  1. Insulin resistance

    • Insulin resistance occurs when the body's tissues become less responsive to insulin, an important hormone that regulates how the body's cells use sugars for energy. Insulin resistance is often a precursor to Type 2 diabetes.

      A person can be labeled as insulin resistant when her fasting blood sugar levels are more than 115 mg/dl.

    High Blood Pressure

    • Another marker of Metabolic X Syndrome is high blood pressure, or hypertension. A patient is considered to be hypertensive when his blood pressure averages 140/90 or higher.

      Patients with Metabolic X Syndrome present with high blood pressure in the majority of cases.

    High triglycerides and low HDL cholesterol

    • Triglycerides are a type of fat in the blood that contributes to heart disease. Patients with Metabolic X Syndrome often have high levels of triglycerides; usually greater than 200 mg/dl.

      Patients usually present with low "good", or HDL (high-density lipoprotein) cholesterol. Readings under 40 mg/dl for men and 50 mg/dl for women are considered to be too low.

    Abdominal obesity

    • Patients with Metabolic X Syndrome present with abdominal obesity or large amounts of fat in the abdominal region.

      Patients with Metabolic X are often overweight or obese as a whole, but in particular, the size of the midsection is likely to be excessive.

    Causes

    • The exact origin of Metabolic X Syndrome is unknown, but a genetic link has been established. If a direct relative has Metabolic X or the symptoms of it, their children or more likely to suffer from it as well.

      A diet high in saturated fats and refined sugars may also contribute to the occurrence of Metabolic X Syndrome.

    Treatment

    • The best way to treat Metabolic X Syndrome is through a healthy diet and exercise.

      A diet rich in whole grains, fiber, lean meats and dairy and lots of fresh veggies and fruit, along with plentiful cardio exercise, can help to treat Metabolic X Syndrome.

      Medications are also prescribed to manage the symptoms of Metabolic X, such as high triglycerides, high blood pressure and high blood sugar.

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