How did You Know 'Metabolic Syndrome' ?

How to Know if You Have Abdominal Obesity

     Currently, doctors classify obesity as a medical condition that requires care and treatment, as it can lead to various diseases. The World Health Organization (WHO) defines obesity as a condition in which the body stores excess fat in different areas, leading to illnesses and possibly causing death.

Metabolic Syndrome

     Metabolic Syndrome is a common type that causes several health issues. Doctors diagnose it through physical examination and laboratory tests, with at least 3 out of 5 criteria having to be met:

1. Waist circumference measurement at the navel while standing with feet 10 cm apart, during exhalation:
   • Men: No more than 90 cm
   • Women: No more than 80 cm
2. Triglyceride level ≥ 150 mg/dL
3. HDL cholesterol level:
   • Men: < 40 mg/dL
   • Women: < 50 mg/dL
4. Blood pressure ≥ 130/85 mmHg
5. Fasting blood sugar ≥ 100 mg/dL

Causes of Obesity

• Genetics: Some families are more prone to obesity, which may be influenced by upbringing, environment, and shared lifestyle.
• Diet: Regularly consume high-energy foods, especially starches and fats, and eat more than the body needs.
• Medications: Some drugs increase appetite, such as psychiatric drugs, diabetes medications, and steroids.
• Certain diseases, particularly those involving the endocrine system, such as thyroid and adrenal gland disorders.
• Cultural and environmental factors: Lifestyle and habits based on country or ethnicity.
• Alcohol and smoking: Consumption of alcohol and smoking can contribute to weight gain.
• Stress: Psychological issues can lead to overeating.

With technological advancements, younger people today have many conveniences but lack exercise.

Impacts of Obesity

Obesity can lead to various health problems, including:

• Hypertension
• Abnormal blood fats
• Diabetes
• Heart and vascular diseases
• Chronic kidney disease
• Certain cancers (such as uterine, ovarian, breast, and colon cancer)
• Sleep apnea
• Acid reflux
• Osteoarthritis
• Irregular menstrual cycles

Treatment for Obesity

Obesity treatment focuses on lifestyle changes to reduce risks, such as:

• Avoiding sugary or alcoholic beverages
• Reducing portion sizes at each meal, especially foods high in starch and fats
• Increasing fiber intake, such as vegetables and unsweetened fruits, and avoiding snacks
• Increasing physical activity, such as using stairs instead of the elevator and exercising for at least 30 minutes daily
• Regular check-ups to detect complications like diabetes, high blood fats, or the use of weight loss medications

The most sustainable way to lose weight is to change eating habits, consume appropriate foods, avoid fatty or fried foods, and exercise regularly.