How to Reverse Metabolic Syndrome

High blood pressure is a symptom of metabolic syndrome.

Metabolic Syndrome, or Syndrome X, is rarely diagnosed even though as much as 25 percent of the population has it. It's difficult to diagnose because it contains a combination of risk factors including high cholesterol, insulin resistance, belly fat and high blood pressure. The good thing is that you can reverse Metabolic Syndrome easily since it is caused by obesity. Reversing metabolic syndrome requires a complete lifestyle change, but reducing one or all of the symptoms has an effect on Syndrome X.

Things You'll Need

• Cholesterol-lowering medicine
• Blood pressure medication

Instructions

1. Weight loss is the key to reversing metabolic syndrome. Losing as little as 10 percent of your total weight will reduce your risk of further health problems.

2. Exercise is necessary to lose weight and reverse metabolic syndrome. Start small by adding a short amount of exercise each day until you can exercise 30 to 60 minutes 6 days a week. In addition to weight loss, exercise is necessary for good heart health.

3. Metabolic syndrome can also be reversed with better eating habits. Reduce fat, refined carbs, sweets and fast food. Increase fiber, lean meats and healthy oils.

4. Another way to deal with metabolic syndrome is to lower your cholesterol. See your doctor to have your cholesterol levels tested. If you can't lower your cholesterol on your own through diet change and exercise you'll need to consider taking a cholesterol-lowering drug.

Tips & Warnings

• Increase your intake of healthy fats.

• Reduce the amount of refined carbs in your diet.

• Include lean meats and fish in your diet.

• Increase your overall fiber intake.

• Always try to lower your cholesterol on your own before trying a cholesterol-lowering drug.

• Make sure you are getting enough food throughout the day. Eating less than 1200 calories a day or going too long between meals is not good for your metabolism.