Exercise and diet improve the symptoms of metabolic syndrome

Metabolic syndrome is a group of health problems that include high blood pressure, insulin resistance (high blood sugar levels in a fasting state), abdominal fat deposits and abnormal blood lipid levels. Metabolic syndrome increases the risk of heart disease, stroke, diabetes and some types of cancer. It affects 34 percent of the population and the incidence increases with age. Diet and exercise are the best treatments for this disease.

Ricardo Mora-Rodriguez and colleagues from the University of Castilla-La Mancha in Spain found that the combination of aerobic interval training and a calorie-restricted diet improved body mass index, reduced abdominal fat compared to the control group, improved hemoglobin A1C (marker for blood sugar control) levels, lowered LDL cholesterol (bad cholesterol) and total cholesterol levels, increased maximal oxygen consumption and exercise capacity, and reduced the number of risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome. Another group that first exercised and then dieted also improved numerous health factors.

Metabolic syndrome is a serious health problem - especially in the United States. Lifestyle modifications could result in significant improvements. These health effects can be prevented.

(International Journal Sports Medicine, published online December 4, 2015)