The primary “treatments” for metabolic syndrome are for patients to lose excess weight, exercise regularly, and stop smoking. Weight loss and exercise can:

• Decrease blood pressure levels
• Increase insulin sensitivity
• Decrease triglyceride and LDL levels
• Raise HDL levels
• Decrease risk of cardiovascular disease and stroke

Drug treatment may be necessary to address hypertension and high cholesterol levels. Some doctors also recommend aspirin to decrease the risk of clotting, and a few doctors prescribe medications to increase insulin sensitivity (although there is not widespread agreement on this).

Patients with metabolic syndrome should work with their doctor and other medical professionals, such as a nutritionist, to develop an individualized treatment plan and to monitor its effectiveness.