Metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance are lifestyle diseases. There are many things that can lead to these conditions including a poor diet, sedentary lifestyle, and obesity.

Insulin resistance (also known as type II diabetes or adult onset diabetes) occurs when the fat and muscle cells in the body become resistant to the insulin hormone. The insulin hormone is made by the pancreas and is used to help the cells absorb and metabolize blood glucose effectively. If the cells become resistant to the insulin hormone the body is unable to get the necessary nutrients.

Metabolic syndrome is diagnosed when somebody has multiple lifestyle illnesses at the same time. According to the International Diabetes Association, the criteria for metabolic syndrome is having a BMI (Body Mass Index) greater than 30 in conjunction with two of the following conditions.

  • Triglyceride levels higher than 150
  • HDL levels lower than 50 for women and lower than 40 for men
  • Blood Pressure higher than 130/85
  • Fasting blood sugar levels higher than 100
  • Diagnosed insulin resistance or type II diabetes

 

The Connection Between The Two Conditions

 

Insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome are often times diagnosed together. Often times, insulin resistance occurs in people who suffer from obesity. People who are obese can also suffer from high blood pressure and high cholesterol. Thus, the combination of the illnesses related to obesity leads to metabolic syndrome.

Most of the time, these conditions are caused by living an unhealthy lifestyle. People with insulin resistance and metabolic syndrome can reverse the conditions by making lifestyle changes.

 

Treatment For Metabolic Syndrome and Insulin Resistance

 

If you have been diagnosed with multiple conditions related to metabolic syndrome, it may be necessary for you to take oral medications to control the illnesses.

It will also be recommended that you make some lifestyle changes. If you suffer from obesity you will want to lose weight. This can help combat insulin resistance, hypertension, and high cholesterol. If is important to follow a healthy diet that is low in sugar and processed foods.

In extreme cases of morbid obesity combined with several metabolic syndrome, the doctor may recommend weight loss surgery. Gastric bypass surgery can help take the extra pounds off quickly. It will also limit caloric intake and sugar intake. Thus, making it much easier to control conditions related to metabolic syndrome.

Exercise can also help combat these conditions. If you do not exercise currently, it is recommended that you begin an exercise program. Consult with your physician about the proper diet and exercise plan for you.

There are also several herbal and natural remedies available for metabolic syndrome and insulin resistance. If you are interested in exploring these remedies, it is important to discuss it with your physician. If your physician is unfamiliar with alternative treatment plans, you should ask for a referral to a specialist.

It is possible to reverse these lifestyle conditions. Small positive changes can make a huge difference in your overall health!