As we age, our bodies undergo various changes that can affect our health in profound ways.
For some, this transition can lead to challenges such as metabolic syndrome, a condition that often goes unnoticed but poses significant risks, especially for women over 40.
I watched this happen to my mother over time, and she eventually was a victim to it's effects.
Let's take a peek at what metabolic syndrome is; shedding light on its impact, and exploring ways to mitigate its consequences.
How Metabolic Syndrome changed the life of someone I love most.
In our current health crisis in America, metabolic syndrome is more prevalent than ever, yet most don't know they have it or that it exists.
So what is it?
Metabolic Syndrome is a collection of conditions or diseases that when working together create Metabolic Syndrome (MetS). These are high blood pressure, high triglycerides, low HDL cholesterol, high fasting blood glucose, large waist circumference.
Left untreated, MetS can cause stroke, type 2 diabetes, and heart attacks.
My mother had high blood pressure, high triglycerides, low HDL... she checked every box and then some. Add COPD and a lifetime of taking antidepressant and anxiety medication. Some needed, and some overly prescribed by a Dr. who retried 4 months before her "incident".
Pam (my mom) let her high glucose levels go uncontrolled for years, along with struggling to lose weight. Before glucose was monitored as closely as it is now, in her 30's- she was mainly treated for her blood pressure and cholesterol. In her late 40's and early 50's is when blood glucose became an accompanying issue.
My mother was diagnosed with dementia at the age of 68, a condition known to be linked to metabolic syndrome.
Prior to her dementia diagnosis her type 2 diabetes was uncontrolled due to her lack of support from her medical team as well as some of her own non compliance.
Her weight gain would be excessive and then taper, maybe lose a bit; however it was never a great or significant amount to change her overall health. It was a rollercoaster of weight, blood glucose, cholesterol, and medications.
She took pills for her pills ( that is taking pills that counter the side effects of the other pills you take) until one day there was an unknown incident that left her unresponsive and awake, sitting in a puddle of her own urine on her couch, surrounded by piles of clothing and garbage that hadn't been there days before.
This landed her in the hospital and when I met with the physician once she had gotten back to "baseline" the doctor told me she had dementia and could no longer live alone. Her life and mine changed overnight. But it had been building up like pressure in a shaken bottle for some time and obviously that incident was the explosion.
Witnessing her decline firsthand and eventually losing her at the young age of 73 has left an indelible mark on my consciousness. It has fueled my quest to understand this silent threat and its implications for those battling it, especially women in their middle ages.
Unveiling the Enigma: What is Metabolic Syndrome?
Metabolic syndrome is not a standalone condition but a cluster of interconnected health issues.
It encompasses a combination of factors, including high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar levels, abnormal cholesterol levels, and excess abdominal fat.
These components, when present together, create a metabolic milieu that significantly elevates the risk of chronic diseases such as heart disease, stroke, and type 2 diabetes.
The Intersection of Metabolic Syndrome and Cognitive Health
One of the lesser-known consequences of metabolic syndrome is its impact on cognitive function. Studies have shown a strong association between metabolic syndrome and an increased risk of developing dementia and Alzheimer's disease. The link between these conditions is rooted in the intricate interplay of cardiovascular health and brain function. As metabolic syndrome wreaks havoc on the body's vital systems, the brain is not spared from its detrimental effects.
Navigating the Journey: Strategies for Prevention and Management
While the prospect of metabolic syndrome may seem daunting, there are proactive steps that can be taken to mitigate its effects and safeguard our health.
Adopting a healthy lifestyle that includes regular exercise, a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables, adequate sleep, and stress management can significantly reduce the risk of developing metabolic syndrome.
Additionally, regular health screenings and consultations with healthcare providers are essential for early detection and effective management of underlying risk factors.
Metabolic syndrome serves as a stark reminder of the intricate relationship between our lifestyle choices and our overall health.
As we age, it is imperative that we prioritize our well-being and take proactive steps to safeguard our health against conditions like metabolic syndrome.
Take Care,
XO
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