Insulin resistance syndrome (Syndrome X)

What you need to know

Insulin resistance syndrome or syndrome X is combination of different symptoms that are a direct result of too much sugar in the diet, combined with various nutritional deficiencies. This scenario is typical of our Western diet and is thought to affect about 20% of the population. Common symptoms include: fatigue, energy & mood fluctuations, reliance on stimulants to stay alert (tea, coffee, sugar, cola), cravings for refined carbohydrate foods (breads, pastries and sweets), always feeling hungry, weight gain (especially around the waist) and an inability to loose body-fat. Other signs are: splitting nails, dry, flaky skin, limp or dull hair, skin tags in the neck, armpit or groin, a round face and thick neck, abdominal bloating after meals and creases in the lower ear lobe.

Luckily, after being diagnosed with insulin resistance syndrome, dietary changes, nutritional support and herbal remedies can really control this condition, which is very important as it is thought to be associated with many other diseases including diabetes, heart disease, cancer, cholesterol imbalance and High blood pressure. Some naturopaths also suggest that insulin resistance syndrome may be some way related to systemic candidiasis or Chronic Fatigue Syndrome (ME).

The most useful Supplements:

Research has shown that there are many nutrients that are deficient in people with insulin resistance syndrome. Key nutrients include Chromium, Copper, Manganese, Magnesium , Vitamin B3, Vitamin B6, vitamin C, Vitamin E and Zinc. It is therefore important to supplement with a hi-potency multivitamin and mineral once or twice a day to correct any deficiencies.

High blood sugar and insulin levels over a period of time results in an increase of free-radicals and causes glucose to react with body proteins (glycation), therefore increasing the risk of degenerative disease. Taking an Antioxidant formula regularly will help neutralise or ‘mop up’ these damaging free-radicals. (1-2 capsules daily)

Alpha lipoic acid	Powerful Antioxidant which also helps to lower blood glucose levels. Take 600mg per day
B-complex (high strength)	For efficient glucose metabolism and energy production. Take 1-2 tablets daily
Chromium	To help regulate blood sugar levels take 200-1000mcg per day
Magnesium	Improves glucose metabolism and insulin response. Take 200-600mg per day
Vitamin E	Antioxidant protection and improve insulin sensitivity. Take 400-1500iu per day
Soluble fibre (linseed, guar, pectin, oatbran)	To slow absorption of sugar and fats. 1 tsp-1tbsp at each meal with plenty of water
Zinc	To help glucose regulation, especially if overweight. Take 30mg of Zinc per day with 2mg of Copper

The most useful Herbs:

Dietary changes that may be beneficial:

A diet rich in complex carbohydrates and dietary fibre instead of refined sugars is generally recommended to avoid sudden rises in blood sugar level, however modern naturopathic thinking also involves looking at the glycemic index of foods. The glycemic index is a measure of how quickly a food affects blood sugar levels. The table below shows the glycemic index of various foods, the higher the number, the faster the release of sugars into the bloodstream. Generally scores ranging from 0 to 54 are considered low and scores above 55 are considered as high gylcemic foods. Therefore reducing high glycemic foods and increasing low glycemic index foods is strongly recommended.

• Try to eat some protein food at the same time as carbohydrate foods to slow the release of sugars into the bloodstream.
• Eating the right types of fat can affect help to regulate insulin response. This basically means eating more oily Fish, nuts and seeds and reducing saturated fat found in Meat and Dairy products.
• Having at least 5 servings of fruit and vegetables every day will help provide plenty of Antioxidant nutrients, as well a various vitamins and minerals. Try to choose ones with a lower glycemic index.

Other useful advice:

• If you are overweight, particularly around the waist-line other symptoms of insulin resistance syndrome are often worsened. Weight loss improves insulin sensitivity and it associated symptoms. Discuss with your doctor on how to get to your ideal weight. Also see the section on Obesity.
• Smoking is not a healthy practice and has been shown to worsen insulin resistance syndrome. It is worth reducing or giving up smoking.
• Exercise helps improve insulin sensitivity and weight loss. An appropriate exercise programme comprising of both aerobic and resistive training appears to be most helpful at controlling insulin resistance syndrome. This should be a graded programme, related to the individual’s fitness level and interest, yet which elevates heart rate by at least 60% of maximum for half an hour three times per week. Always discuss with your doctor.

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This information is licensed for use by Wellbeing Information Systems Ltd ("WIS"), and protected by international copyright law. All rights are reserved. (email info@wisinfo.co.uk). The information provided by WIS is for guidance only. Whilst it is based upon the expert advice of leading professionals, and extensive research, it is not a substitute for diagnosis by a qualified professional. Always consult your doctor, pharmacist or qualified practitioner before making any changes or additions to prescribed medication.