What is Cardiometabolic Disease?
Cardiometabolic disease, also known as atherosclerosis (arterial disease) dyslipidemia and metabolic syndrome, refers to a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of developing cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes. It is caused by a combination of factors that affect metabolism, chronic inflammation and the cardiovascular system. These include obesity, high blood pressure (hypertension), hyperinsulinemia (insulin resistance or diabetes), and high oxidized LDL cholesterol and triglyceride levels.
The exact cause of cardiometabolic disease is not fully understood. It is likely a result of a combination of genetic factors, adverse lifestyle choices, and environmental toxins that create oxidative stress. Sedentary lifestyle, unhealthy diet (processed foods, starch and sugars), smoking, excessive alcohol consumption, and chronic stress are among the contributing factors.
When you have cardiometabolic disease, you are at a higher risk of developing serious health complications, such as heart disease, stroke, and diabetes. These conditions can lead to significant disability and mortality rates if not identified and proactively treated.
The diagnosis of cardiometabolic disease is typically based on the presence of specific risk criteria, including abdominal obesity (measured by body composition or waist circumference), elevated blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, elevated oxidized LDL and triglycerides, and low levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol.
Reversal of cardiometabolic disease includes lifestyle modifications, such as adopting a low carb diet, regular physical activity, weight loss, and smoking cessation. Medications may also be prescribed to control blood pressure, blood sugar levels, oxidized LDL cholesterol and, most importantly, INFLAMMATION. Supplements are recommended to treat identified deficiencies like vitamin D and folic acid to reduce homocysteine.
Preventing and reversing cardiometabolic disease requires a comprehensive approach that addresses the underlying risk factors. Promote a healthy lifestyle, educate individuals about the risks associated with cardiometabolic disease, and provide appropriate medical interventions to reduce the impact of this condition on individuals' health and well-being by putting it into remission.
For more information, and to begin the process of reducing your threat from cardiometabolic disease, request a complimentary discovery call with Dr. Backs.