Metabolic syndrome
Also known as:
Syndrome X, insulin resistance syndrome
A cluster of waist size, blood pressure, glucose and lipid changes that together raise heart and diabetes risk.
Written and reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD · Last reviewed
VIDEO LESSON
How it's defined
• Large waist (thresholds vary by population)
• Triglycerides 150 mg/dL or higher
• HDL cholesterol below 40 mg/dL in men or 50 mg/dL in women
• Blood pressure 130/85 mmHg or higher
• Fasting glucose 100 mg/dL or higher
• Three or more of the five make the diagnosis
Why it matters
Each feature adds risk, and together they point to insulin resistance and visceral fat. The syndrome raises the risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and fatty liver.
Treatment
Treat the root cause with weight loss, activity, sleep and a Mediterranean-style diet, and treat each risk factor to target. Incretin medicines improve several components at once.
Key studies and references
Educational content only, written and reviewed by Farhan Tahir, MD. It does not replace individual medical advice. For sudden chest pain, trouble breathing or stroke symptoms, call 911.
AT A GLANCE
Category
Blood sugar & liver
Also known as
Syndrome X, insulin resistance syndrome
Reviewed by
Farhan Tahir, MD
Questions about your own care?
Dr. Tahir’s team offers consults through Youthful Medicine.
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