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DIABETES TYPE 2 AND YOU
SYNDROME X, THE METABOLIC SYNDROME
Twenty five percent of Americans have this problem and it is increasing.
What is it? In the metabolic syndrome, your body makes insulin but the
cells do not allow all of the insulin to enter the cells, so the insulin
is at high levels in the blood vessels and causes all types of changes.
High insulin levels cause vascular inflammation, fat production and an
increase in triglycerides, blood pressure, and waist size. This combination
leads to vascular inflammation and higher risk of heart attacks.
How do I know if I have this problem? You have the metabolic syndrome
if you meet 3 of the following criteria. Blood pressure greater than 130/85,
high triglycerides-greater than 150, fasting glucose above 110, LDL cholesterol
below 40 in men and below 50 in women, or waist size greater than 40 inches
in men or 35 inches in women.
What can I do if I have this problem? The best treatment is reversing
what caused the metabolic syndrome in the first place. Exercise is the
key. How much? Start a walking program and increase slowly. Work up to
an hour per day or 5 minutes of exercise 12 times per day or 10 minutes
6 times per day. Don’t worry that you get an hour of exercise; start
moving again.
Medication that can reduce the metabolic syndrome is metformin, also
known as Glucophage. This is the only medication that causes weight loss;
Actos and Avandia cause weight gain while they are correcting the metabolic
problems, and although the fat weight gained is good fat, it is harder
to lose weight. When you take any of these medications then your energy
increases as glucose gets into your cells and you feel like doing more
activities. Ask your healthcare provider about treatment for the metabolic
syndrome, but start walking. Every little bit of exercise helps.
The diabetes support group meets the second Monday of each month at 7
pm in our office. Everyone is welcome. There is no charge.
Timothy J. Gray, D.O.
Book-Of-The-Month-Club Author
Board Certified in Family Practice
Mountain View Medical Center
1909 Mountain View Lane Suite
Forest Grove, Oregon
503-359-4773
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