Preventing Metabolic Syndrome - What's That?

According to the American Heart Association, about 50 milliion Americans have metabolic syndrome - which is a precursor to type 2 diabetes.

This condition is characterized by:

high triglycerides
low HDL cholesterol (50 mg/deciliter or lower)
high blood sugar (120 or higher)
high blood pressure (above 120/80)
above average waistline (for women that's about 35 inches)

Genetics do play a role in metabolic syndrome, but it is mostly lifestyle according to doctors.

Exercise and eating clean are extremely important to combat this. Cut out the high fat, sugar and processed foods for a start. Regular cardio and resistance training sessions should be added as well. The American College of Sports Medicine recommends moderately intense cardio 30 minutes per day, five days a week (or vigorously intense cardio 20 minutes a day, 3 days a week) - plus 8 to 10 strength training exercises (with 8 to 12 reps of each exercise) twice a week.

Visit www.oxygenmag.com/metabolic for more information on how a healthy lifestyle can help you avoid dangerous medical conditions