Metabolic syndrome is a constellation of interrelated metabolic abnormalities that occur together and substantially increase the risk of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. These abnormalities include central (abdominal) obesity, elevated blood pressure, dyslipidemia, and impaired glucose regulation. Rather than a single disease, metabolic syndrome reflects an underlying state of insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction.
The most commonly used clinical definition requires the presence of any three of five criteria: increased waist circumference (with cutoffs that vary by ethnicity), elevated triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, elevated blood pressure, and elevated fasting glucose or treatment for these conditions. This harmonized definition is widely applied in both primary care and specialty settings.
The underlying pathophysiology centers on insulin resistance and visceral adiposity, which promote abnormal lipid metabolism, endothelial dysfunction, and chronic low-grade inflammation. Adipose tissue–derived cytokines and hormonal dysregulation further contribute to worsening metabolic and vascular risk.
Clinically, metabolic syndrome is important because it markedly raises the likelihood of developing atherosclerotic cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes, as well as conditions such as nonalcoholic fatty liver disease and polycystic ovary syndrome. Management focuses primarily on lifestyle modification, including weight reduction, physical activity, and dietary changes, with targeted treatment of individual risk factors as needed.
Prevention
We recommend meeting with our health coaches to learn about ways to improve your health, and how to work with your nervous system to create space and room for change. Schedule a free chat with Keryn or Sue
Interested in testing? We recommend stating with Functional Nutrition to test your fasting insulin and glucose, nutrient status, and genetic susceptibility. Schedule a free chat with Sue
Toxic burden also plays a role in the development of metabolic syndrome. Learn more about clean living in our series. Clean Living Series
Holistic RI • Integrative Medicine 