Before we list the metabolic syndrome risk factors, it would be useful to first describe exactly what metabolic syndrome is. As a reference, it used to be called metabolic syndrome X, and is now sometime referred to as insulin resistance syndrome. Now most commonly referred to as metabolic syndrome, risk factors have not changed despite what it is called.

Metabolic syndrome refers to a group of risk factors that increase the chance of developing diabetes, heart disease, stroke, and some other health complications. The word “metabolic” is just a medical term referring to the biochemical processes that are involved in the normal functioning of the body. And “risk factors” are conditions (medical or environmental), traits, and habits or lifestyle choices that increase the chances of developing something. There are five metabolic syndrome risk factors, and to have metabolic syndrome, you must have at least three of them. Almost anyone …