2.Metabolic Syndrome and Central Weight Gain

What it is
A cluster of risk factors: abdominal weight, raised blood pressure, high triglycerides, low HDL and elevated fasting glucose. Having three or more significantly raises your risk of heart disease and diabetes. About two thirds of Australian adults are overweight or obese.

How natural medicine helps

• Low refined carbohydrate, high fibre style eating, with strong evidence for cardiovascular and metabolic outcomes

• Soluble fibre (psyllium), plant compounds and omega 3s for lipid support

• Magnesium and potassium rich foods, and herbs such as hibiscus, for blood pressure support

• Addressing the drivers conventional care often skips: sleep, chronic stress, gut health and hormonal shifts.