Metabolic Syndrome in Ann Arbor, MI

What is Metabolic Syndrome?

 

Metabolic Syndrome is made up of high blood pressure, excess body fat around the waist, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels.  These conditions are extremely concerning and can increase your risk for heart disease (the leading cause of death in the US) and Diabetes II.  What's even more concerning is that, in turn, can increase your risk of a heart attack and stroke.

 

It sounds scary, but the good news is that there is A LOT you can do to prevent or reverse metabolic changes through your lifestyle and diet under the guidance of a practitioner.

 

What are some symptoms of Metabolic Syndrome?

Symptoms of Metabolic Syndrome may not be as obvious as other conditions which is why it can go under the radar for many people.  However, in some individuals symptoms can be similar to Diabetes and high blood pressure which can include:

 

• Increased thirst
• Increased urination
• Unstable blood sugar
• Blurry vision
• Fatigue
• Headache
• Bloody Nose
• Dizziness

 

 

Causes of Metabolic Syndrome

 

• Poor lifestyle
• Poor diet
• Stress
• Eating all the time
• Lack of movement

 

 

 

Lab Testing and Diagnosis

 

Criteria for Metabolic Syndrome

 

• Central Obesity

o   A waistline of 40 inches or more for men

o   A waistline of 35 inches or more for women

• A blood pressure of 130/85 mm Hg or higher
• A triglyceride level above 150 mg/dl
• HDL Cholesterol less than 40 mg/dl for me and less       than 50 mg/dl for women
• Fasting glucose greater than or equal to 100 mg/dl

 

 

More in depth testing includes markers such as inflammation, particle size of your cholesterol, and ratios of certain cholesterols which can include the following:

 

• ESR
• hs-cRP
• LDL
• HDL
• Total Cholesterol
• Triglycerides
• HDL/Triglyceride Ratio
• LDL particle size
• Fasting Insulin
• Lipoprotein a
• TMAO

 

Management

Earlier we looked at the causes so it would make sense by addressing those causes in treatment. Even for those eating a clean diet and exercising like crazy, if you don't have your stress or sleep under control, you have not addressed all factors that could be affecting your metabolic markers. The following are addressed in management:

 

• Sleep
• Stress Management
• Diet
• Digestion
• Movement and maintaining muscle mass
• Fasting
• Nutraceuticals to address vitamin/mineral deficiencies
• Medications when needed

 

Each aspect of management is equally as important as the others. Together, they have a positive effect on your physiology leading you to optimal metabolic health!