Articles & Publications About Metabolic Syndrome


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The highly experienced and well-trained bariatric surgeons at Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital understand the importance of getting rid of excess body weight to fight obesity-related metabolic syndrome. Our staff can help you achieve and sustain weight loss through surgery or lifestyle modifications to help you avoid the effects of metabolic syndrome.
Metabolic syndrome, also called dysmetabolic syndrome, insulin resistance syndrome, obesity syndrome, syndrome X, and hypertriglyceridemic waist refers to a cluster of risk factors that increase a patient's risk of developing obesity-related conditions, such as coronary artery disease, type II diabetes, and stroke. There are five conditions that are considered to be metabolic risk factors. If a patient displays three of these five conditions, they are considered to have metabolic syndrome. These metabolic risk factors include:
The risk of developing conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and stroke increases as the number of metabolic risk factors increases. The risk of developing metabolic syndrome is closely related to obesity and physical inactivity. In addition, insulin resistance can further increase a patient's chance of developing metabolic syndrome. Insulin resistance is closely linked to obesity. Other factors that play an important role in the development of metabolic syndrome include genetic factors, family history, and age.
Surgical interventions for metabolic syndrome have not been widely accepted, but bariatric surgery trials conducted in morbidly obese patients with metabolic syndrome have shown benefits, such as a marked decrease in insulin resistance and levels of inflammatory cytokines. Multiple studies have shown that bariatric surgery results in sustained and substantial weight loss and improves most symptoms of metabolic syndromes, such as hypertension, sleep apnea, hyperlipidemia, and type II diabetes.
Metabolic syndrome can increase the risk of certain perioperative issues, which should be considered before undergoing any major surgical procedure.
Bariatric surgery is a viable option for patients who have been obese for a long time and who have been unsuccessful in losing weight through more conservative diet plans. Bariatric surgery is for obese people with a body mass index (BMI) over 35-40 and significant obesity-related comorbidities.
The majority of bariatric surgical procedures include a restrictive component, meaning that the procedure will limit or restrict the amount of food a person can eat. These procedures make a patient feel full and satisfied even after eating a small amount of food. The laparoscopic adjustable gastric banding (LAGB) is entirely a restrictive procedure. Other commonly performed procedures include laparoscopic Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (LRYGB), sleeve gastrectomy, and pancreatic diversion with duodenal switch. These procedures result in weight loss by diverting nutrients from the duodenum and altering the endocrine and absorptive functions of the gut.
At Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital, our minimally invasive surgical techniques help patients experience less pain and postoperative scarring, resulting in a faster recovery time and a quicker return to normal activities.
All medical treatment for metabolic syndrome will include a well-structured and guided weight loss program that focuses on eating healthy, exercising regularly, and developing a calorie deficit. At Cedars-Sinai Marina del Rey Hospital, we also advise physical therapy, psychological services, and support groups, because we believe all-around support makes it easier to maintain good nutrition.
Nearly all risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome do not produce any signs and symptoms.
A large waist circumference may be an obvious sign of the metabolic syndrome.
Some patients may show symptoms of high blood sugar, particularly if they have type II diabetes.
These symptoms include excessive thirst, increased frequency of urination, especially at night, increased fatigue, and vision problems or blurred vision.
Usually, patients with high blood pressure do not complain of any symptoms, but people in the early stage of hypertension may experience fainting spells, dull headaches, or abnormal nosebleeds.
Metabolic syndrome is diagnosed on the basis of a careful physical examination and blood tests. At least three of the following metabolic risk factors should be present in order to diagnose metabolic syndrome:
The major risk factors for metabolic syndrome are:
Other risk factors include:
Metabolic syndrome is caused by the interplay of factors, such as obesity, a passive lifestyle, insulin resistance, advancing age, and genetic factors. While some people are genetically susceptible to developing insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome, other people develop the condition as a result of excess body fat, insufficient physical activity, and a daily diet high in carbohydrates.
The herbal remedies used in traditional Chinese medicine, such as ginseng, bitter gourd, and berberine, have shown beneficial effects for treating obesity. Still, large-scale clinical studies are needed to establish the safety and efficacy of these agents in the management of the metabolic syndrome.
The best possible method for preventing metabolic syndrome is the adoption of heart-healthy lifestyle changes. These changes can help reduce the risk of diabetes and coronary heart disease. If you have heart disease or diabetes already, lifestyle changes can help prevent or delay the occurrence of heart attack, stroke, and complications of diabetes. Keep track of your cholesterol, blood pressure, and blood sugar levels by scheduling regular visits to your doctor. Some of the tips for heart-healthy lifestyle modifications are:
If you are obese or are concerned about metabolic syndrome, the specially trained bariatric surgeons at Marina Weight Loss can answer questions and compare treatment options, including bariatric surgery, to find the most appropriate treatment option for you.