Which factors predict metabolic syndrome? A cross sectional study in Kermanshah, Iran

Abstract

Background: Lifestyle and food pattern play a key role in the creation and control of metabolic syndrome (MS). Objective: The present study was conducted to determine the role of nutritional and anthropometric factors as the predictors of MS in food production and distribution business owners. Materials and Methods: The present cross-sectional study was conducted on 112 food retailers selected in a random fashion. The study questionnaires included the demographic information questionnaire and food frequency questionnaire. The body composition was measured using the body analyzer. To examine lipid profiles and blood sugar, 5 ml fasting blood samples were taken from the participants. The data were analyzed using the logistic regression test. Results: The present study found high waist–hip ratio and body fat mass to be the strongest anthropometric predictors of MS. High lean body mass and total body water were negatively correlated with and played a protective role in MS. Consumption of dairy products as a food group was negatively correlated with MS, i.e., the higher the consumption, the lower the emergence rate of MS. The prevalence of MS was found to be 30.4% in the over 40 age group, 51.4% in 40–49 years old and 61.3% in those aged 50 and above, suggesting a positive correlation between the prevalence of MS and increasing age (P = 0.02). Conclusion: The present study found increased waist circumference and reduced dairy consumption to increase the risk of MS. Furthermore, weight reduction changes in lifestyle by increasing physical activities and observing proper diets were found to significantly decrease the risk of MS.