What Is Metabolic Syndrome?
Metabolic syndrome is not a single disease but a constellation of metabolic abnormalities that, when present together, significantly amplify cardiovascular and metabolic risk. In Canada, an estimated 19–25% of adults meet the criteria for metabolic syndrome.
The Role of Insulin Resistance
At the core of metabolic syndrome lies insulin resistance — a state in which cells become less responsive to insulin's signals. Visceral adipose tissue is particularly metabolically active, secreting inflammatory cytokines that worsen insulin resistance.
Lifestyle as First-Line Treatment
A Mediterranean-style dietary pattern has shown the most consistent benefits, reducing the prevalence of metabolic syndrome by up to 50% in clinical trials. Physical activity recommendations include at least 150 minutes per week of moderate-intensity aerobic exercise.
Pharmacological Approaches
When lifestyle modifications are insufficient, targeted pharmacotherapy may be necessary. Metformin remains a cornerstone for insulin resistance. Increasingly, GLP-1 receptor agonists are being studied for their potential to address multiple components of metabolic syndrome simultaneously.
