Metabolic Syndrome (MS) is a condition characterised by central obesity, hypertension
(HTN), glucose intolerance and insulin resistance. Metabolic Syndrome increases the risk of development of cardiovascular disease (CVD) and Type 2 diabetes and deaths due to CVD. The primary risk factors for Metabolic Syndrome include insulin resistance and abdominal obesity, which are highly prevalent in Indians. It is estimated that approximately 25% of the world's population has Metabolic Syndrome. Nearly 30 % of Indians have metabolic syndrome disorder.
Treatment of Metabolic Syndrome begins first with therapeutic lifestyle changes (healthy eating habits and physical activity). Metabolic syndrome is also known as syndrome X, metabolic syndrome X, cardiometabolic syndrome, insulin resistance syndrome.
The following thumb rules may be followed to be free from components of MS:
Body mass index (BMI) to be maintained at 23 or less (20 to 23)
Increased physical activity, with a goal of at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity
activity on most days of the week. Seek your physician’s approval before starting your
exercise program.
Healthful eating habits that include regular intake of seasonal fruits and vegetables,
reduced intake of salt and oils and fats. Restricted intake of fatty meat. Hydrogenated fats (dalda) to be avoided completely. Bakery foods are mostly prepared with dalda.