With the start of a new year, many people are looking to make good on their resolutions. If shedding those pesky pounds is in your sights, you’ve got options. Unfortunately, losing weight doesn’t always go as planned. If you find yourself doing everything and still struggling to slim down, it might be more complicated than you think.
In fact, “metabolic syndrome” might be to blame.
Unfamiliar with the term? Let’s dive into all the important things you should know about metabolic syndrome and what you can do to overcome it!
What Is Metabolic Syndrome?
Turns out, metabolic syndrome isn’t just one, single condition. Rather, metabolic syndromes typically show up as various related conditions that can all contribute to potential health problems, such as strokes, heart disease, and diabetes.
People with metabolic syndromes will typically experience two or more of the following:
- Hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Increased blood sugar
- Increased waist fat
- Increased fat in blood (triglycerides)
- High cholesterol levels
Research indicates that your body shape plays a major role in your risk of metabolic syndrome. People who carry significant weight in their abdomen region are more likely to have metabolic syndrome than people who carry significant weight around their hips.
RELATED: Metabolic Syndrome: A Concerning Cluster of Conditions
The Main Risk Factors of Metabolic Syndrome
So we’ve briefly mentioned the conditions associated with metabolic syndrome, but what causes this cluster of conditions?
The first and foremost risk factor for metabolic syndrome is weight. Obesity and inactivity are directly linked to a higher likelihood of getting the syndrome. Type 2 diabetes and age also increase your risk of metabolic syndrome.
Then there are genetic factors. Some people can eat endlessly and maintain a high metabolism while others store fat and struggle to maintain or lose weight.
Some people also have “insulin resistance.” This condition refers to your body’s ability to digest food into sugar. Generally speaking, the body uses the hormone insulin to help your body use sugar appropriately. People with insulin resistance, however, have