Better Nutrition Can Help Prevent Insulin Resistance (Metabolic Syndrome)

September 13, 2009

According to a national health survey, more than 1 in 5 American adults (47 million) and roughly 1 million adolescents have metabolic syndrome (aka: insulin resistance), and the number is rising. The risk of metabolic syndrome increases with age, affecting more than 40% of people in their 60’s and 70’s. Metabolic Syndrome is a group of health risks that significantly increase your chance of developing heart disease, stroke, and diabetes.

Are you at risk? Metabolic syndrome is diagnosed when any 3 of the 5 following conditions are present: 1. Abdominal fat: waist circumference > than 40 (men) or 35 (women) inches. 2. Elevated fasting triglycerides (> 150mg/dL) 3. Low HDL (<> 130/85 mmHg) or taking antihypertensive medication. 5. Diagnosis of insulin resistance or diabetes (fasting glucose > 110 mg/dL).

There is evidence that sub-clinical deficiencies in certain vitamins, minerals and antioxidants can significantly influence the development of insulin resistance (metabolic syndrome) and its symptoms.

Vitamin E affects several symptoms of metabolic syndrome. It inhibits LDL oxidation, slows atherosclerosis, reduces insulin resistance, reduces inflammation and blindness.

There is evidence that Vitamin D3 deficiency may contribute to insulin resistance, which is the precursor to clinical diabetes.

Thiamine (Vitamin B1) is essential for glucose metabolism and insulin production by pancreatic beta-cells.

Niacin (Vitamin B3) lowers total cholesterol, lowers blood triglycerides, increases HDL cholesterol and inhibits the oxidation of LDL cholesterol.

Pyroxidine (Vitamin B6) deficiencies of Vitamin B6 can induce abnormal glucose intolerance. Vitamin B6 has also been shown to reduce blood pressure.

Co-enzyme Q10 is a powerful antioxidant that reduces blood pressure, protects arteries from oxidation of LDL cholesterol and decrease atherosclerotic plaques.

Alpha Lipoic Acid is a powerful antioxidant that improves insulin sensitivity and glucose tolerance. It also reduces blood pressure and inhibits vascular inflammatory responses and reduces oxidative stress.

Calcium helps reduce blood pressure and may decrease the risk of obesity by helping to modulate energy metabolism.

Chromium deficiency my lead to impaired glucose tolerance. It plays a critical role in glucose, lipid and protein metabolism. It facilitates the binding of insulin to cells, thus alleviating insulin resistance.

Magnesium is an important co-factor in hundreds of enzymatic reactions in the body including lowering blood pressure and preventing diabetes.

Selenium is an important mineral that is a powerful antioxidant, lowering glucose levels, and blood pressure.

Antioxidants prevent the production of free radicals which can lead to increased oxidation of LDL cholesterol.

There are simple blood tests available that can identify if you are at risk for nutritional deficiencies that can lead to Metabolic Syndrome or other chronic disease conditions.

By: Pamela Egan