Metabolic Disorders
Weight Loss Management in Singapore
Obesity
Body Mass Index (BMI), a measure derived from height and weight, ideally falls within the range of 18.5 to 22.9 kg/m2. The metabolic disorder obesity is characterised by a BMI of at least 23 kg/m2. Another indicator of obesity is a waistline exceeding 80cm for women and 90cm for men.
Excessive body fat, mainly concentrated around the waist, heightens the likelihood of experiencing elevated blood pressure, increased blood cholesterol, diabetes, as well as an increased risk of heart disease and stroke.
Dyslipidaemia
Dyslipidaemia is a metabolic disorder defined by abnormal lipid levels in the blood. It often presents with elevated levels of cholesterol or triglycerides and is a significant risk factor for cardiovascular diseases. Dyslipidaemia itself may not exhibit symptoms, but it can lead to symptomatic cardiovascular diseases like heart attack and stroke.
At Harmony Thyroid, Endocrinology, and Diabetes Centre, we specialise in addressing metabolic disorders to prevent heart disease and stroke. Through collaborative efforts with patients, we strive to enhance overall well-being and minimise the risk of cardiovascular issues. Our dedicated team focuses on comprehensive care, particularly in weight management and dyslipidemia.
The Metabolic Ripple Effect: Unraveling the Connection Between
Metabolic Disorders and Cardiovascular Diseases
More than 6700 Singaporeans die of heart disease, stroke, or other cardiovascular diseases every year. This group of illnesses often have multifactorial origins, but metabolic disorders are the most significant risk factor for the development of cardiovascular diseases. This article examines the connection between metabolic disorders and the development of Cardiovascular diseases.
Metabolic disorders constitute a diverse group of conditions affecting the body’s ability to process and utilize energy, often leading to interconnected health challenges. A healthy metabolic system is characterized by the efficient and balanced regulation of energy metabolism, including the physiological breakdown of nutrients and the maintenance of metabolic balance. However, lifestyle factors such as an imbalanced diet, sedentary lifestyle, or stress may throw this system off balance, disrupting other bodily functions.
Obesity is considered the most common precursor for many metabolic disorders. It is characterized by an excessive accumulation of body fat, often resulting from a combination of poor diet, genetics, and a sedentary lifestyle. Obesity is a risk factor in the development of cardiovascular diseases as it causes alterations to several physiological and metabolism functions, including:
- Hypertension (High Blood Pressure): Excessive body weight strains the cardiovascular system, requiring the heart to pump blood with increased resistance. This persistent high blood pressure causes damage to arterial walls and increases the risk of CVD illnesses.
- Inflammation: Adipose or fat tissues secrete proinflammatory substances which damage the blood vessels.
- Dyslipidemia: Excessive body weight is often accompanied by dyslipidemia, characterized by elevated levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) and triglycerides and reduced levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL). These lipid imbalances contribute to the formation of arterial plaques, which narrow and harden the arteries. Increased buildup to these plaques is often the precursor to CVD illnesses.
Understanding the intricate relationship between metabolic disorders and cardiovascular risks empowers individuals and healthcare professionals to adopt targeted preventive measures. Lifestyle modifications are a pivotal step to manage metabolic disorders. Some changes that you can make include incorporating a heart-healthy diet, regular exercise, and weight management to your daily routine. Timely management of metabolic disorders through medications and vigilant monitoring reduces the likelihood of cardiovascular complications.
Your journey to better metabolic health starts today. Visit the Endocrine Harmony clinic and take the first step towards a healthier weight management in Singapore, leading to a more empowered life.
References:
- MOH Singapore. principal-causes-of-death. www.healthhub.sg. Published January 1, 2023. Accessed November 21, 2023. https://www.healthhub.sg/a-z/health-statistics/principal-causes-of-death
- Swarup S, Zeltser R. Metabolic Syndrome. Nih.gov. Published February 28, 2019. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459248/
- Tham K, Lim AL, Baur L. The global agenda on obesity: what does this mean for Singapore? Singapore Medical Journal. 2023;64(3):182. doi: https://doi.org/10.4103/singaporemedj.smj-2023-018
