Lifestyle as a Risk Factor for Metabolic Syndrome and Neurological Disorders

Abstract

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a constellation of interrelated risk factors of metabolic origin that promote the development of diabetes and cardiovascular disease. The primary components of MetS are insulin resistance, central obesity, dyslipidemia, low-grade chronic inflammation, and hypertension. Modifications of diet and introduction of exercise delay the induction of insulin resistance and onset of MetS. Biochemically, MetS is accompanied not only by the dysregulation in the expression of TNF-a and IL-6 but also by alterations in levels of leptin, a peptide hormone secreted largely by adipose tissue that controls food intake and energy expenditure. MetS is an important risk factor for neurological disorders (stroke, AD, and depression). The molecular mechanisms involved in the relationship between MetS and neurological disorders are not fully understood. However, it is proposed that impairment of endothelial cell function, abnormality in essential fatty acid metabolism, and alterations in lipid mediators along with abnormal insulin/leptin signaling may contribute to the relationship between MetS and neurological disorders. A healthy diet and exercise postpone or delay the onset of MetS and neurological disorders.