What causes metabolic syndrome?
Many factors contribute to the development of metabolic syndrome, but insulin resistance is the underlying cause. Insulin resistance means the body isn’t using enough insulin to regulate blood sugar (glucose). Because the body isn’t able to use the glucose, glucose levels rise. The body produces more insulin in an effort to lower glucose.
Insulin resistance is closely linked to eating an unhealthy diet and not getting enough physical activity. Both of these behaviors will increase your weight.
At least 44% of Americans over age 50 have this dangerous syndrome, but most are unaware of it. It’s becoming an increasingly common health problem for people in their mid-30s, especially men.
What are the risks for metabolic syndrome?
You’re more likely to develop metabolic syndrome if you have these risk factors:
Does a slow metabolism cause obesity?
A “slow” metabolism is very rare and it does not cause obesity. Obesity happens when you eat more calories than your body burns as energy. The extra calories are stored as fat.
The complex factors that contribute to weight gain include:
How does obesity affect metabolism?
Obesity causes numerous effects on the body, both direct and indirect, that can cause dysfunction in many organs and tissues. These complex effects vary by age, overall health, and many other factors.
Obesity affects metabolism by:
