Metabolic syndrome, or Syndrome X, is a disease comprised of a cluster of other conditions. In the January 2002 issue of Journal of the American Medical Association (JAMA), researchers indicated that more than 47 million U.S. residents have metabolic syndrome. This number continues to grow due to issues such as poor dietary habits and lack of physical activity. According to the textbook “The NSCA’s Essentials of Personal of Personal Training,” in order for metabolic syndrome to be diagnosed, individuals must meet elevated numerical criteria for problems related to abdominal obesity, blood pressure and lipid profile levels.
Abdominal Obesity
In the “European Heart Journal Supplements,” researcher J. Despres indicated that abdominal obesity is the most prevalent cause of metabolic syndrome due to its strong ties to various other cardiovascular and metabolic risk factors. Increased abdominal obesity increases the risks of coronary artery disease and diabetes. A waist circumference greater than 40 inches for men and 35 inches for women is one possible component of metabolic syndrome.
Elevated Blood Pressure
Elevated blood pressure is a component of metabolic syndrome due to its relationship with the other components of the disease. Increased abdominal obesity causes the heart and blood vessels to work much harder thereby causing elevated blood pressure. Additionally, reduced HDL (high density lipoprotein) levels contribute to hardening of arteries, which also causes an increased blood pressure. A blood pressure reading that is greater than or equal to 135/85 mm Hg is one of the markers for metabolic syndrome.
Reduced HDLs
Reduced high density lipoproteins are a serious issue in relation to metabolic syndrome. HDLs serve as plaque removal agents in the blood stream. A lower level of HDLs contributes to a lack of plaque removal, which then relates strongly to increased risk of coronary artery disease. A reduced HDL level of less than 40 mg/dL in men and less than 50 in women is another possible component of metabolic syndrome.
About this Author
Based in Las Vegas, Darian Parker has been a published writer since 2003. Parker has published several books such as, “The Empty Room” and “Training the Trainers.” Parker holds a Ph.D. from the University of Las Vegas and is a certified Personal Trainer through the NSCA.
