Metabolic syndrome is defined as the combination of diabetes, high blood pressure and obesity. In combination they are far more likely to cause damage to blood vessels, and people with metabolicsyndrome are at serious risk of heart disease, strokes and other conditions. Another name for metabolic syndrome is insulin-resistance syndrome because it is characterized by high levels of insulin in the body, but an inability to react to it.
As with each condition in isolation, weight loss, healthy eating, and being more active can help to combat the symptoms and risks of metabolic syndrome. However, the combination of conditions makes the need to take action even more imperative. In some cases medication may be necessary to lower blood sugar levels.
Symptoms Checklist:
- A waist circumference of over 101 cms (men) and 89 cms (women).
- Central obesity – fat collected around the abdomen rather than spread across the body.
- High blood pressure.
- High levels of triglycerides in the blood.
Diabetes is a treatable condition, and medication to control blood sugar levels may be prescribed. However, in the initial stages of diagnosis, it may be possible to manage the symptoms by taking significant steps towards lifestyle changes: losing weight, eating healthily, and becoming more active.
It is imperative to take action, as diabetes can have very serious implications for long-term health. The dangers include:
- Heart disease and strokes
- Damage to the nerves
- Kidney disease
- Reduced sex drive, erectile dysfunction
- Damaged to the eyes resulting in blindness
HOW WEIGHTMATTERS CAN HELP
DOCTOR
Our private doctor will take relevant tests, assess the risks to you, make referrals and prescribe medication if necessary
DIETICIAN
Our dietician will design a nutritionally balanced programme to aid weight loss, lower blood pressure, control blood sugar levels and promote a healthy lifestyle
INDIVIDUAL THERAPY
Our therapists will support you with the emotional impact of your medical condition and how the physical symptoms effect your quality of life. They can also work with you to understand the issues that underlie your obesity or that may be an obstacle to weight loss
BODY THERAPY
Our therapists can support you with the emotional impacts of being diagnosed with diabetes, the stress this puts on your life or the medical complications that ensue
SIGN UP FOR OUR WORKSHOPS
- HOW TO LOSE WEIGHT & KEEP IT OFF – Saturday 2nd February 2013
- FREEDOM FROM EMOTIONAL EATING – Sunday 3rd February 2013
- TURNING DOWN THE NOISE & OBSESSION WITH FOOD IN MY HEAD – Sunday 17th March 2013