Metabolic syndrome: Causes, symptoms, and management 

Overview

Metabolic syndrome refers to the combination of health conditions that together increase your risk of developing health issues like heart disease, stroke, and Type 2 diabetes. In Australia, more than 35% of adults are at risk¹ due to common lifestyle and dietary patterns. Recognising early warning signs and responding promptly can make a big difference.

What is metabolic syndrome?

Metabolic syndrome occurs when multiple risk factors for health issues arise simultaneously. These include:

• High blood pressure (hypertension)

• High blood sugar (insulin resistance)

• High triglycerides

• Low “good” HDL cholesterol

• Excess belly fat

If you have three or more of these risk factors, you may be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome.

Causes and risk factors

Metabolic syndrome arises from a mix of genetic, lifestyle, and environmental influences, including:

1. Lifestyle-related causes

• Poor diet (high sugar, processed foods, unhealthy fats)

• Lack of physical activity

• Being overweight or obese (especially central obesity)

2. Medical or genetic factors

• Insulin resistance (your body’s cells don’t respond properly to insulin)

• Family history of Type 2 diabetes or heart disease

• Hormonal changes (especially post-menopause)

• Certain medications (like steroids)

Symptoms

Below is a quick overview of how metabolic syndrome may show up in the body:

Note: Many symptoms are silent; you may feel fine but still be at risk. Hence, regular checks are essential.

How is metabolic syndrome diagnosed?

A GP can identify metabolic syndrome through a combination of blood tests and a physical exam. They’ll usually assess your blood pressure, waist measurement, blood sugar, and cholesterol levels to understand your health risks. Tests include:

• Fasting glucose levels

• Blood pressure readings

• Lipid profile (HDL, triglycerides)

• Waist measurement

Many telehealth doctors can order tests and discuss results online.

Health risks linked to metabolic syndrome

Here are some key risks associated with metabolic syndrome:

• Type 2 diabetes – develops as insulin resistance worsens.

• Heart disease and stroke – caused by the combined impact of high blood pressure, poor lipids and obesity.

• Non-alcoholic fatty liver disease – usually found in people with metabolic imbalances.

• Sleep apnoea – extra abdominal fat contributes to breathing difficulties during sleep.

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) in women – hormonal and insulin-related issues often overlap.

Management and lifestyle changes

Here are a few practical tips:

1. Dietary changes

• Choose whole grains, lean proteins (fish, chicken, legumes), and include plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables.

• Avoid sugary drinks, processed foods, fatty snacks, and alcohol.

• Pay attention to portion sizes and prepare meals at home whenever possible for healthier choices.

2. Exercise and weight management

• Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise on most days, such as walking, swimming, or cycling.

• Include strength exercises (using weights or body-weight exercises) twice a week to build muscle and support insulin control.

• Monitor your waistline: In Australia, measurements above 94 cm for men and 80 cm for women may indicate a greater health risk.

3. Medical management

• If prescribed, take medications for high blood pressure or high cholesterol as directed by your doctor.

• Have regular health check-ups (in person or via telehealth) to track your blood pressure, blood sugar, lipid levels, and cholesterol.

• Work with your online GP to create a health plan that’s realistic, personalised, and easy to maintain long-term.

When to see a doctor

See a GP if you:

• Have high blood pressure or sugar readings

• Struggle with weight around your midsection

• Experience fatigue or frequent thirst

• Have a family history of diabetes or heart disease

• Want to start a healthy lifestyle and need guidance

How Hola Health can help

With Hola Health, you can manage metabolic syndrome from home through bulk-billed telehealth consultations.

• Online telehealth consultations for routine health checks

• eScripts for blood pressure or diabetes medication

• Specialist referrals (e.g., endocrinologist, dietitian)

• Ongoing health management plans

Book a telehealth appointment today — it’s simple, secure, and 100% online.

Conclusion

Metabolic syndrome often doesn’t cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, but taking action early can have lasting benefits. Routine assessment of blood pressure, blood sugar, and lipid levels, combined with lifestyle changes in diet and exercise, can make a real difference. Your health is in your control; every small change counts toward long-term health.

FAQs

Can metabolic syndrome be reversed?

Yes, in many cases, making positive changes to your diet, physical activity, weight, and addressing other risk factors can often reduce or even reverse aspects of metabolic syndrome.

What diet is best for metabolic syndrome?

A diet rich in whole grains, lean proteins, vegetables and fruits, while limiting sugary drinks, processed foods, and unhealthy fats, is generally recommended.

Is metabolic syndrome the same as diabetes?

No, metabolic syndrome is different from diabetes, though they are closely related. Metabolic syndrome is a group of conditions—including excess abdominal fat, high blood pressure, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels—that increase the risk of developing Type 2 diabetes. Diabetes, particularly type 2 diabetes, is a disease where blood sugar levels are consistently high. Having metabolic syndrome doesn’t automatically mean you have diabetes.

How long does it take to improve metabolic syndrome?

It varies from person to person. Some risk factors may improve within weeks or months with lifestyle changes; others (like cholesterol or waist size) might take longer. Staying consistent is key.

Can telehealth doctors prescribe medication for high blood pressure or cholesterol?

Yes, many online GP services (including Hola Health) can provide prescriptions, arrange tests, and follow up on conditions like high blood pressure or cholesterol through telehealth.