Understanding Metabolic Syndrome or Syndrome X Part I
by Dr. Greg Fors, DC – Board Certified Neurologist DIBCN Posted On: 07/01/2007
The most common reason someone seeks the care of a clinician is some form of recurring musculoskeletal pain. Specifically, insulin resistance, also known as syndrome X or metabolic syndrome, is the most common metabolic problem that individuals suffer from today. The metabolic changes that take place with insulin resistance are increased glucose intolerance, hyperinsulinemia; increased LDL’s and decreased HDL’s leading to increased risk for diabetes, obesity, hypertension and atherosclerosis(1). According to the most recent research, the cause of this metabolic syndrome and the pandemic of obesity is a drastic shift in our dietary patterns. One recent study now shockingly predicts that one out of every two Americans has or is developing this pre-diabetic condition insulin resistance or metabolic syndrome.
How Insulin Resistance Develops
Presently it is estimated that the average American consumes a record average 154 to 180 pounds of caloric sweeteners per year(2). Our modern snacks and meals are rich in processed foods, low in fiber, high in refined carbohydrates and sugars that causes unhealthy blood glucose levels. This creates a pancreatic reaction with high insulin levels to drive down these dangerous blood glucose levels. This overproduction of insulin creates a reactive state of low blood glucose and high insulin levels. This leads to increased hunger, fatigue, pain, headaches and mood swings, thereby driving the individual to eat high glycemic foods and drink sugary caffeinated beverages in an attempt to self medicate. This creates another sugar high leading to overproduction of insulin causing the cycle to start all over. Over time, this high glycemic diet causes the cells of the body, especially the muscle cells, to stop using insulin effectively. This leads to insulin resistance, systemic inflammation, pain, fatigue and metabolic dysfunction.