Syndrome X… Do You Have It?
By Marge Roman

Syndrome X is not a new science fiction movie, but a condition that is affecting almost 20% of adults and the percentage is growing. Syndrome X is a condition known as insulin resistance.

Insulin resistance is when the pancreas secretes enough insulin, but the body is resistant to it. In order to compensate for this the pancreas secretes more and more insulin. This excess of insulin keeps blood glucose levels normal, though in the high range, so diabetes does not occur. High blood glucose and an excess insulin are what lead to the health disorders associated with Syndrome X.

The health disorders believed to be caused or worsened by Syndrome X are many of the health conditions a large percentage of people have. These conditions are as follows:

1. Type 2 diabetes
2. High blood pressure
3. High cholesterol
4. High triglycerides
5. Obesity
6. Depression
7. Cancer

Researchers at Stanford University school of Medicine believe that today's lifestyle and poor nutritional habits have led to the growth of this condition. The theory is that a sedentary lifestyle, stress and a diet high in refined carbohydrates are the culprits in the development of Syndrome X.

Statistics show how the "fast-food" lifestyle has contributed to this syndrome. People are eating more "drive-thru" meals than ever before. Many on a daily basis. A recent study done with first graders found that 97% of the children could name the contents of 3 different fast food chains' children's meals. While only 42% could name the president of the United States.

A study of sugar consumption shows an increase in sugar usage of almost 150 pounds of sugar per year, per person in the United States. This is probably why the number one breakfast choice of Americans 14-35 is a large cola! This is where the vast majority of sugar is consumed by children and teens. One in ten teenagers drinks seven cans of soda pop per day the average is 3.5 cans or 42oz. That's 35 teaspoons of sugar a day on average!

Is there a way to combat Syndrome X? The answer is yes! Changes in the diet, increasing activity and supplementing the diet with nutrients can make a remarkable difference.

1. Reduce the consumption of refined carbohydrates and sugars.
2. Eliminate soda pop and fruit drinks.
3. Decrease consumption of starchy vegetables (White potatoes, corn, peas, carrots)
4. Increase lean meats
5. Increase leafy green vegetables. 
6. Increase healthy fats (nuts, flaxseed, fish).
7. Eliminate trans fatty acids (fried foods, margarine)
8. Balance carbohydrates with adequate protein (3-4 oz per meal )

You should consider using dietary supplements. Everyone should take a complete multiple vitamin and mineral supplement daily. Some additional supplements you may want to add are:

1. Chromium - to balance blood glucose
2. Flax seed or fish oil - omega 
3. fatty acids
3. Alphalipoic acid - an antioxidant that supports liver function.
4. Vitamin e and co-enzyme Q- 10 to support cardiovascular health.
5. The herbs fenugreek, bitter melon and gymnema - to eliminate excess blood glucose.
6. Garlic and l-carnitine to reduce cholesterol and triglycerides.

There are many other things you can do to prevent or even reverse Syndrome X. If you suffer from any of the health conditions mentioned or if they run in your family you may want to take a long look at your nutritional habits. Also, consider the diet of your children and their level of activity. Adult-onset (type 2) diabetes is increasing at an alarming rate among teenagers and young adults.

Syndrome X is growing in the United States, some researchers feel it could affect as much as 40% of the population in the next 10 years. This syndrome is proving the importance of a healthy diet in prevention of the most common diseases of the new millennium. Prevent SYNDROME X, it's cheap health insurance!