Metabolic syndrome: most effective dietary supplements

Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of metabolic disorders that occur simultaneously in an individual. These disorders include abdominal obesity (fat accumulation around the abdomen), a high triglyceride level, a decrease in "good" cholesterol (HDL), high blood glucose, and high blood pressure. These abnormalities significantly increase the risk of developing diabetes and cardiovascular diseases.

Pathophysiology

Metabolic syndrome is linked to several mechanisms. Abdominal obesity plays a central role by contributing to insulin resistance, a condition in which the body no longer responds well to this hormone. This leads to poor regulation of blood sugar and promotes the storage of fat in organs such as the liver and muscles. rnrnInsulin resistance, often associated with low-grade chronic inflammation, contributes to increases in blood glucose and blood lipids, impairing blood vessel function and thereby increasing the risk of heart disease. rnrnOxidative stress and inflammation worsen damage to blood vessels and promote atherosclerosis.

Risk factors

Abdominal obesity is one of the main factors, measured by a waist circumference greater than 94 cm in men and 80 cm in women. Lack of physical activity and a diet high in simple sugars and saturated fats also promote the development of this syndrome. In addition, a genetic predisposition can increase the risk in some people.

Diagnosis

To diagnose metabolic syndrome, several criteria are evaluated. Generally, one must have abdominal obesity associated with at least two of the following factors: a fasting blood glucose greater than or equal to 5.6 mmol/L, a triglyceride level greater than or equal to 1.7 mmol/L, an HDL level less than 1.03 mmol/L in men and 1.29 mmol/L in women, or blood pressure greater than or equal to 130/85 mmHg.

Complications

Metabolic syndrome greatly increases the risk of serious complications, such as diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Insulin resistance can promote the onset of diabetes, while inflammation and poor regulation of blood lipids increase the risk of myocardial infarction and stroke. Chronic inflammation also affects the health of blood vessels, promoting atherosclerosis.

Treatment

Treatment of metabolic syndrome is primarily based on lifestyle changes. Weight loss, even modest, and increased physical activity improve insulin sensitivity, reduce blood lipid levels, and better control blood pressure. rnrnIn addition, medications such as fibrates or statins can be used to treat lipid disorders, and antihypertensives to manage blood pressure. In some patients at risk of diabetes, metformin may be prescribed to improve insulin response.rnrn