What causes metabolic syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome is associated with being overweight or obese , and a lack of physical activity.

It's also linked to insulin resistance, which is a key feature of type 2 diabetes . Blood sugar levels are controlled by a hormone called insulin. If you have insulin resistance, too much glucose can build up in your bloodstream.

Your chances of developing metabolic syndrome are greater ifyou have a family history of type 2 diabetes, or you've had diabetes during pregnancy (gestational diabetes) .

Other risk factors

Other factors that increase your risk of developing metabolic syndrome include:

  • your age your risk increases as you get older
  • your race certain ethnic groups, such asAsian and African-Carribean people, may be at greater risk
  • other conditions your risk is greater if you've had cardiovascular disease , non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFLD) , or, in women, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Content supplied by the NHS Website

Medically Reviewed by a doctor on 21 Dec 2018