For a long time, metabolic syndrome has been associated with diabetes. Patients suffering from this problem are most likely to develop cancer, heart disease and type 2 diabetes. At present many researches are going on it in the hope to sense its activity.

The metabolic syndrome can be defined as a group of conditions that comes along with the risk of stroke, heart disease and diabetes. However, having one of the conditions does not mean the condition is present.

As per the National Cholesterol Education Program, any three combination of the aforementioned traits will meet the criteria for this metabolic syndrome. Here are some of the common symptoms for metabolic syndrome:

• High blood pressure of equal to or greater than 130/85.
• Increased glucose level of equal to or greater than 100 mg/dl.
• Triglycerides of 160 mg/dl or above.
• HDL cholesterol of 50 mg/dl or lower in women and 40
  mg d/l or lower in men
• High LDL cholesterol level
• Glucose intolerance, high insulin levels and resistance to insulin

Some of the risk factors associated with the chance to develop this conditions are:

• Obesity around the area of abdomen.
• Diabetes history in the family.
• Certain race like the Asians and Hispanics have a greater risk.
• With age the prevalence of this condition also increases.
• Some other diseases may also increase the risk of developing this condition.

Changing the lifestyle is one of the most effective ways to prevent metabolic syndrome. Regular exercise and healthy food with plenty of fruits, vegetables and foods rich in fiber will help you avoid this condition from developing. Make sure to have a regular check up of cholesterol, blood sugar and blood pressure levels to avoid this problem. Quitting bad habits like smoking and drinking will also help. Consult your doctor the moment you notice any of these signs.