Metabolic Syndrome Criteria and Its Impact on Your Health
By Dr. Alfonso Morales, MD: Board-Certified Metabolic Syndrome Specialist at Viva Vitality MN
Recently, Forbes México published an in-depth feature on the rising health crisis of metabolic syndrome in Mexico, highlighting the voices of leading physicians and researchers. Among them was Dr.Alfonso Morales, who shared his perspective on the challenges and solutions surrounding this “silent enemy.”
Key Points from the Forbes Feature
- Metabolic syndrome affects millions of adults in Mexico, often without early symptoms.
- It increases the risk of diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and obesity-related conditions.
- Lifestyle changes, early detection, and education are essential to combating the crisis.
Dr. Alfonso’s Perspective
As a physician and health advocate, Dr. Alfonso emphasized the importance of early prevention and holistic management strategies. He explained that while medications may be part of the treatment plan, long-term solutions must focus on:
- Improving nutrition and balanced eating habits.
- Incorporating daily physical activity.
- Stress management and improved sleep hygiene.
- Regular health check-ups to detect warning signs early.
Making a Diagnosis:
Metabolic Syndrome Criteria
A diagnosis of Metabolic Syndrome is formally established when a patient presents with three or more of the following five cardinal risk factors, each a critical vital sign of your metabolic health.
Diagnostic Metabolic Syndrome Criteria:
1. Elevated Waist Circumference
This measures excess visceral adiposity, as fat stored around the abdomen is metabolically active and directly contributes to insulin resistance.
2. Elevated Triglycerides
A high level of this fat in the bloodstream indicates the liver is overproducing lipids, a key sign of a dysregulated energy storage system.
3. Reduced HDL Cholesterol
Often called “good” cholesterol, low levels of HDL reduce the body’s ability to transport harmful cholesterol away from the arteries and back to the liver.
4. Elevated Blood Pressure
Hypertension forces the heart to work harder and, in the context of this syndrome, is closely linked to endothelial dysfunction and systemic inflammation.
5. Elevated Fasting Glucose
This is a primary indicator of insulin resistance, where the body’s cells fail to respond properly to insulin and cannot efficiently use blood sugar for energy.
Why Does This Matter?
Metabolic syndrome is called a “silent enemy” because most people don’t realize they have it until complications appear. By bringing this issue to the forefront in Forbes México, Dr. Alfonso Morales and other experts are raising awareness that could help save lives.
If you’re concerned about metabolic health or want to learn more about preventive strategies, schedule a consultation with Dr. Alfonso Morales, MD.
Original article published by Forbes México
Los datos son alarmantes, según la Encuesta Nacional de Salud y Nutrición, más de 36.5 millones de adultos en México cumplen con criterios de síndrome metabólico.
México enfrenta un reto silencioso y devastador: el síndrome metabólico. Este conjunto de factores de riesgo —obesidad abdominal, hipertensión, glucosa elevada, triglicéridos altos y colesterol HDL bajo— se encuentra detrás de la epidemia de diabetes tipo 2, de las enfermedades cardiovasculares y de ciertos tipos de cáncer.
Metabolic Syndrome FAQs
What is metabolic syndrome?
Metabolic syndrome is a cluster of interconnected health conditions that increase your risk for heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. It is not a single disease, but rather a combination of factors—including elevated blood pressure, high blood sugar, excess abdominal fat, and abnormal cholesterol or triglyceride levels. Having metabolic syndrome signals that your body’s metabolism is under strain and that your long-term cardiovascular and metabolic health is at risk.
What are the five signs of metabolic syndrome?
Physicians typically diagnose metabolic syndrome when three or more of the following five criteria are present:
- Increased waist circumference – excess abdominal fat (typically >40 inches in men, >35 inches in women).
- High blood pressure – systolic ≥130 mmHg or diastolic ≥85 mmHg, or requiring treatment.
- Elevated fasting blood sugar – ≥100 mg/dL or being on medication for high blood sugar.
- High triglycerides – ≥150 mg/dL or on therapy for elevated triglycerides.
- Low HDL (“good”) cholesterol – <40 mg/dL in men or <50 mg/dL in women.
The more of these risk factors you have, the higher the likelihood of developing serious complications such as diabetes or cardiovascular disease.
How to treat metabolic syndrome?
Treatment for metabolic syndrome focuses on addressing its root causes through both lifestyle interventions and, when necessary, medical therapy:
- Lifestyle modifications:
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains while limiting refined sugars and processed foods.
- Engage in at least 150 minutes of moderate physical activity per week.
- Achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
- Quit smoking and limit alcohol intake.
- Adopt a heart-healthy diet rich in vegetables, fruits, lean proteins, and whole grains while limiting refined sugars and processed foods.
- Medical treatment:
Depending on your individual risk profile, your physician may prescribe medications to control high blood pressure, high cholesterol, or elevated blood sugar. In some cases, advanced therapies may also be recommended to reduce long-term risks.
Early detection and consistent management of metabolic syndrome can dramatically reduce the risk of heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes. If you suspect you may have signs of metabolic syndrome, consult with your physician for a comprehensive evaluation.
