Metabolic syndrome & diabetes
The metabolic syndrome is the name given to a group of different conditions that are likely to increase your chance of developing Type 2 diabetes. It is still unclear what causes the metabolic syndrome, although there is an inherited, genetic link. Being overweight and physically inactive has also been linked to this syndrome.
Whilst you can't change your genetic family history, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing the metabolic syndrome. Healthy weight control is essential. Speak to your diabetes healthcare team for further advice and tips for losing weight. Regular exercise is very important because it can help you lose excess weight and lower your blood pressure. Check with your diabetes healthcare team or doctor before starting a new exercise programme.
A diagnosis of the metabolic syndrome may be made if you have three or more of the following features:
- central obesity (fat stored around your waist)
- raised triglycerides (a type of fat found in the blood)
- raised LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol)
- low HDL cholesterol (good cholesterol)
- high blood pressure
- insulin resistance (when the insulin your body produces does not work properly)
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