Definition
Metabolic Syndrome is a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease. The National Cholesterol Education Program states that patients with Metabolic Syndrome have three or more of these five criteria:
- Abdominal obesity (waist circumference >102 cm in men, and >88 cm in women)
- High levels of blood triglycerides (>1.69 mmol/litre)
- Low HDL (<1.04 mmol/litre in men and <1.29 mmol/litre in women)
- Hypertension (>130/85 mmHg)
- Elevated fasting glucose (>5.5 mmol/litre)
All the symptoms of Metabolic Syndrome are related to three key factors: insulin resistance, visceral obesity and endothelial (blood vessels) dysfunction. These three factors perpetuate each other in a vicious cycle. Some of the mediators of these dysfunctional interactions are free fatty acids, inflammatory cytokines (cell signals), insulin, nitric oxide and glycated proteins (proteins bound to sugar)…
Causes / Risk Factors
Major causative factors and risk factors that can contribute to the incidence of Metabolic Syndrome include the following:
- High calorie diet
- High glycaemic load diet
- High fat diet
- Lack of exercise
- Chronic stress
- Toxicity
- Hormonal imbalances
- Chronic inflammation
Signs & Symptoms
- Acne
- Diabetes
- Early Puberty
- Infertility
- Sleep Apnoea
- Snoring
- Daytime Fatigue
- Erectile Dysfunction
- Depression
- Tinnitus
- Migraines
- Myopia
- Hypertension
- Angina
- Heart Attack
Treatments
In order to obtain optimal results, the patient might consider a holistic approach that integrates several treatments to address biochemical, physiological, energetic, emotional and/or spiritual imbalances.
Biomedical Treatment
Biomedical or Nutritional and Environmental doctors and practitioners use treatments that include Diet, Nutrient Therapy, Detoxification and treatment of infections.
It is recommended that a patient consult a qualified Practitioner to assess their symptoms and case history and explore their dividual need to:
- Screen for food sensitivities and allergies
- Improve gastro intestinal health to support the vegas nerve and brain and immune function
- Support neurotransmitter function
- Supply fat soluble nutrients for brain structure and function
- Reduce toxicity and heavy metal accumulation
- Eliminate germs (bacteria, yeast, virus, parasites) to reduce immune response and nutritional deficiencies that can disrupt brain development and function
- Address nutritional deficiencies/Provide essential nutrients
- Regulate blood glucose and establish healthy eating habits
To find a Nutritional or Biomedical practitioner near you, click here
Diet and Lifestyle
Dietary and lifestyle guidelines may assist in the management of Metabolic Syndrome:
- Weight reduction where appropriate is essential. A Ketogenic Diet is a safe fat loss program that burns fat quickly, helps to lower blood triglycerides and increase beneficial HDL levels.
- Diet should be relatively low fat, especially saturated (animal) fats. Essential fatty acids from nuts, seed and fish should be emphasised.
- Refined carbohydrates including sugar, sweets, fruit juices, white breads, pasta and potatoes should be avoided. These foods have a high glycaemic index and are damaging in any amount.
- A diet high in fresh fruit (whole), vegetables (non-starchy), essential fatty acids and lean protein sources provides essential phytonutrients, antioxidants, magnesium and helps to control inflammatory processes in the blood vessels.
- Smoking cessation is the highest priority in currently smoking patients.
- Regular aerobic exercise (starting slowly and increasing as patient’s fitness improves) has been shown to stimulate non-insulin dependant glucose transport into cells.
- Red wine, dark chocolate and other sources of phytonutrients such as green tea may be useful in moderation to reduce inflammation and plaque formation, and support healthy nitric oxide production.
- Maintaining dietary fibre is an important part of dietary management. Water soluble fibres, taken with adequate water, swell in the stomach to create a sensation of fullness which helps reduce appetite. They also help prevent cholesterol absorption from the gut and promote ease of elimination.
- Stress management techniques, such as yoga, meditation and exercise are advised.
Recommended Books
- Primal Body, Primal Mindd
- Gut and Psychology Syndrome
- Breaking the Vicious Cycle
- Paleo Comfort Foods
- Healing Foods
- Supercharged Foods
- Grain-Free Gourmet
Where can I find a certified practitioner?
Finding a well-trained Integrative and/or Functional practitioner requires research but is a vital step in treating complex and chronic illness.
Below are links to lists of practitioners worldwide. We recommend you research the scope, expertise and experience of any practitioners you are considering.
U.S. & Global
Institute of Functional Medicine
https://ifm.org/find-a-practitioner/
Integrative Medicine for Mental Health
http://www.immh.org/find-a-practitioner/
Medical Academy of Paediatric Special Needs (MAPS)
http://www.medmaps.org/clinician-directory/
Australia & New Zealand
Mindd Foundation
https://directory.mindd.org/
The Australian College of Nutritional & Environmental Medicine (ACNEM)
https://www.acnem.org/practitioners/
UK
The British Society for Ecological Medicine
https://www.bsem.org.uk/pages/14-practitioners
Disclaimer: Mindd Foundation does not endorse any specific individuals listed and makes no representations, warranties, nor guarantees and assumes no responsibility for any services provided. Mindd Foundation expressly disclaims all liability for damages of any kind as a result of using any products or services provided by those listed.
