Metabolic Syndrome

lose weight naturally st clair west forest hill torontoMetabolic syndrome, formerly known as Syndrome X, is actually a group of conditions that when occurring at the same time, significantly increase your risk for heart disease, stroke and diabetes.  The conditions that make up metabolic syndrome include abdominal obesity, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, and insulin intolerance. Although these conditions on their own will already predispose you to heart disease, diabetes and stroke, it is the combination of the factors making up metabolic syndrome that significantly increase your risk.

It is believed that insulin resistance is to be blamed for the underlying cause of this syndrome, as the higher levels of insulin in your blood can cause triglyceride and cholesterol levels to rise, and can even affect your kidney function, leading to higher blood pressure.

Factors that put you at risk for metabolic syndrome include:

The treatment your doctor can provide will depend largely on the symptoms you present with.  You could be given medication to lower blood pressure, lower cholesterol levels, regulate your blood sugar, and to decrease your insulin resistance.  However, lifestyle changes may have the biggest impact if you suffer from metabolic syndrome.

Naturopathic medicine may be the best way to improve your lifestyle, as adding things like chromium supplements and determining the right overall plan for you can be of tremendous benefit.  Acupuncture and TCM can help regulate your hormones, blood sugar levels, and can even improve your metabolism.  Yoga is an excellent exercise for improving insulin sensitivity and for keeping your heart healthy.  Massage therapy can lower your stress levels.

Contact us for a FREE consultation on how natural therapy can help you manage metabolic syndrome.

These links may also be helpful:

5 Tips on Exercising with Diabetes

Gestational Diabetes

Treating Diabetes With Acupuncture