Metabolic syndrome is a condition that is associated with insulin resistance, high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels and a higher than normal risk of blood clotting. It is also usually associated with obesity, though it can be present in approximately 5 percent of people who are not overweight. Waist sizes of more than 40 inches for men and of more than 35 inches for women will indicate that these people at risk for metabolic syndrome.
"Metabolic syndrome is unfortunately common. Approximately 20%-30% of the population in industrialized countries have metabolic syndrome. It is thought to affect approximately 50 million people in the US alone."
Insulin resistance will make it difficult to lose weight, and can disrupt healthy blood sugar levels. At its worst, metabolic syndrome may be linked with heart disease or stroke. Women who are post-menopausal, people who smoke, or who eat excessive amounts of carbohydrate and people who are sedentary, are at risk for metabolic syndrome.
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