Dr Rajaneesh Kumar MBBS, MD, specialist in internal medicine, gives tips on cutting your risk factors.
The term, Metabolic Syndrome, refers to a cluster of conditions such as increased blood pressure, abdominal obesity, abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels and high blood sugar. When a patient suffers from three or more of the above disorders, there is a greater risk of future cardiovascular disease, diabetes and stroke.
Why Metabolic Syndrome Matters?
People with Metabolic Syndrome are at increased risk from the following:
How can we prevent complications?
Live better with Life's Simple 7® :
Approximately 23-34 per cent of adults in the GCC have Metabolic Syndrome. The good news is, however, it is possible to reduce one’s risk of suffering from a cardiovascular event by following the advice of the American Heart Association’s Life’s Simple 7.
1. Control Blood Pressure
High blood pressure is a major risk factor for heart disease and stroke. When your blood pressure stays within healthy ranges, you reduce the strain on your heart, arteries and kidneys which keeps you healthier longer.
2. Control Cholesterol
High cholesterol contributes to plaque, which can clog arteries and lead to heart disease and stroke. When you control your cholesterol, you are giving your arteries their best chance to remain clear of blockages.
3. Reduce Blood Sugar
Most of the food we eat is turned into glucose (or blood sugar) that our bodies use for energy. Over time, high levels of blood sugar can damage your heart, kidneys, eyes and nerves.
4. Get Active
Living an active life is one of the most rewarding gifts you can give yourself and those you love. Simply put, daily physical activity increases your length and quality of life.
5. Eat Better
A healthy diet is one of your best weapons for fighting cardiovascular disease. When you eat a heart-healthy diet, you improve your chances of feeling good and staying healthy – for life!
6. Lose Weight
When you shed extra fat and unnecessary pounds, you reduce the burden on your heart, lungs, blood vessels and skeleton. You give yourself the gift of active living, you lower your blood pressure and you help yourself feel better, too.
7. Stop Smoking
Smokers have a higher risk of developing cardiovascular disease. If you smoke, quitting is the best thing you can do for your health.
