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A Diet For Metabolic Syndrome Can Reduce Your Risk Of Heart Disease

Following a diet for metabolic syndrome can do a lot to lower your risk of cardiovascular disease. Metabolic syndrome, also known as metabolic syndrome x, is a cluster of risk factors for heart disease, stroke and diabetes.

What Is Metabolic Syndrome?

The key elements of metabolic syndrome are insulin resistance (where the cells have a lowered response to the action of insulin), high blood pressure, high levels of LDL cholesterol and increased clotting factors. These health problems can lead to heart attack, stroke or type 2 diabetes. Many people with metabolic syndrome are also overweight or obese.

Metabolic Syndrome Definition

The National Cholesterol Education Program classifies a person with metabolic syndrome if they meet 3 or more of the following criteria:
  1. Abdominal obesity: A waist circumference greater than 102cm in men and 88cm in women
  2. Triglyceride levels greater than 150 mg/dl
  3. HDL cholesterol levels 40mg/dl or lower in men, or 50mg/dl or lower in women
  4. High blood pressue of 130/85 or more
  5. High fasting blood glucose level of 110mg/dl or more

What You Can Do If You Have Metabolic Syndrome

You can do a lot to reduce your risk of heart disease or diabetes by following a healthy diet. The recommended treatment is to implement diet and exercise lifestyle changes that promote a healthy weight, and normal levels of blood pressure, glucose, cholesterol and triglycerides.

While the Mediterranean Diet can achieve this outcome, the following healthy foods should be included in your eating plan if you have syndrome x:

  • Whole grains such as barley, and high fiber breads and cereals
  • Legumes such as beans and peas
  • Fresh fruit and vegetables
  • Low fat dairy foods such as yoghurts, cheese and milk
  • Fish
  • Extra lean meat and poultry
  • Healthy fats, from nuts, seeds, avocados, olive oil and other vegetable oils

In addition to eating healthy, you should also aim to get 30 minutes of physical activity each day to improve your cardiovascular fitness and the insulin resistance associated with metabolic syndrome. You can lose weight by following a diet for metabolic syndrome and this will go a long way to improving your overall health.

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Disclaimer: The information provided on this website is for reference purposes only, and is not intended as medical or professional advice. Always consult a healthcare professional before commencing a diet or exercise program

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