Metabolic syndrome (also known as syndrome X) can have many dangerous effects on the body. With new studies constantly emerging, many people are turning to herbs for metabolic syndrome. For those who are not aware of what metabolic syndrome is, it can be defined as a cluster of risk factors that, when combined, can have serious consequences on a person’s health. Metabolic syndrome significantly raises a person’s chances of developing heart problems, heart attacks and heart disease. The Texas Heart Institute has released information on its website giving more information about metabolic syndrome. According to THI, the variables that contribute to metabolic syndrome (a condition that is also called Reaven syndrome or insulin resistance syndrome) include central obesity (extra weight that builds up around the stomach area), diabetes, glucose intolerance, high triglyceride levels, high blood pressure and low high-density lipoprotein (HDL) levels in the blood stream. Some doctors refer to HDL as “good cholesterol.” When a person’s body is low on good cholesterol, they possess one of the risk factors that contribute to metabolic syndrome. Also, it is important to note that the medical term for high blood pressure is “hypertension.” People who develop metabolic syndrome will exhibit more than one of these risk factors.

Although metabolic syndrome can present a serious hazard to one’s health, there is hope for reversing the condition. Herbs for metabolic syndrome have been shown in various studies to reduce some of the risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome. According to the Texas Heart Institute’s website, researchers credit genetics for metabolic syndrome. Besides family history and poor lifestyle habits, doctors do not have any other explanation for why metabolic syndrome occurs. Metabolic syndrome is treated by addressing the underlying issues that are associated with it. Herbs for metabolic syndrome may be helpful, but there is no substitute for making appropriate lifestyle changes to one’s diet and exercise. Quitting smoking and drinking less alcohol will also help a person with metabolic syndrome to avoid some of the serious complications associated with the illness.

Stevia, a natural sweetener, is among the herbs for metabolic syndrome promoted by the National Health Federation, a non-profit health-freedom organization. According to the NHF, Stevia has been shown in studies to fight against hypertension and metabolic syndrome. Additionally, the NHF reports it is up to 45 percent sweeter than sucrose. On their blog, Holistic Health Bay Area lists a few more herbs for metabolic syndrome. Bitter melon (called “momordicacharantia” in the herbal world) has been shown to treat type 2 diabetes. Since glucose-related issues can contribute to metabolic syndrome, it is important to control blood glucose levels. Gymnemasylvestre is another herbs used to treat metabolic syndrome. It is a plant that is native to India, and it is believed to help improve glycemic control. Although the blog promotes herbs for metabolic syndrome before implementing medication, everyone should consult a doctor about their condition before making such decisions.