Five seemingly mild symptoms might be an early indication of metabolic syndrome, which could further develop into heart disease or even a stroke.
Metabolic syndrome is a compilation of several health disorders that simultaneously occur. This complication can raise the risk of heart disease, stroke and type 2 diabetes. It often flies under the radar until it develops into these major health conditions due to its subtle indications.
Urging individuals to learn the top five signs of metabolic syndrome for early detection and managing the condition using lifestyle modifications was Dr Maksims Mukans from Weight Loss Riga. He emphasised that recognising these signs early can prevent the progression of this syndrome and save people from developing serious diseases like heart disease, strokes or diabetes.
Waist circumference
While discussing the most obvious indications of metabolic syndrome, Dr Mukans emphasised on the increase in waist size. For men, any measurement over 40 inches and for women, over 35 inches should be considered a red flag.
According to him: “Excess abdominal fat is a significant indicator because it is closely linked to insulin resistance, a key factor in metabolic syndrome. Monitoring your waist size can be a simple yet effective way to assess your risk.”
High blood pressure
Persistent high blood pressure, or readings consistently above 130/85mm Hg, could be a warning sign as the expert also pointed out that this can put extra strain on the heart and cardiovascular system, with early intervention being vital to manage high blood pressure overall.
Blood sugar levels
The doctor pinpointed blood sugar levels of 100mg/dL or higher, is a major warning sign indicating that the body is struggling to regulate glucose, one of the biggest contributing factors of diabetes. Dr Mukans particularly advised people with a family history of diabetes to monitor their blood sugar levels and intervene at the earliest possibility.
Abnormal cholesterol levels
The metabolic syndrome diagnosis is often defined by the high levels of triglycerides, usually 150mg/dL or more, and low levels of HDL cholesterol, usually 40mg/dL or less in men and 50mg/dL or less in women. Dr Mukans warned this red flag can “significantly increase your risk of deadly cardiovascular diseases”.
Fatigue and low energy
Fatigue is a warning sign for countless health issues but Dr Mukans explained: “When your body is struggling to regulate blood sugar and blood pressure, it often results in persistent tiredness. If you feel fatigued despite getting adequate rest, it’s worth discussing this with your doctor.”
Dr Mukans has suggested a few lifestyle modifications for the prevention and treatment of metabolic syndrome. These include opting for a diet abundant in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. The expert also recommends moderate exercise, weight management, and regular screening for metabolic syndrome.
