Primary prevention

The best strategy for preventing metabolic syndrome is taking up a healthy lifestyle. This includes a diet low in saturated fats and animal protein, and high in fruit, vegetables, and whole grains; regular physical exercise (>30 minutes per day); maintaining a healthy weight; and avoiding sedentary activities.[4][14][60][61][62][63][64][65][66]​​ The US Preventive Services Task Force recommends that adults at increased risk of cardiovascular disease are offered behavioral counseling interventions to promote a healthy diet and physical activity; those not at high risk may also be considered for behavioral counseling interventions.​​​​​​​​​​[67][68]

Secondary prevention

The recommendations for secondary prevention of the complications (e.g., cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes mellitus) associated with metabolic syndrome are the same as those for primary prevention: taking up a healthy lifestyle. This includes a diet low in saturated fats and animal protein and high in fruit, vegetables, and whole grains; regular physical exercise (>30 minutes per day); and avoiding sedentary activities.[4][14][60][66]​ Management of risk factors and comorbidities, such as polycystic ovary syndrome, hypogonadism in males, metabolic dysfunction-associated steatotic liver disease, and sleep disorders, is also an important consideration.​​

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