Physical exercise and metabolic syndrome

Abstract

The metabolic syndrome (MS) is characterized by a cluster of risk factors for cardiovascular diseases and type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM) that occur together more often than alone by chance, commonly associated with obesity (particularly central obesity), elevated blood pressure and triglycerides, low levels of HDL cholesterol and disglycemia. In the last decades, the number of individuals affected by more than one of the risks factors for MS has increased severely, turning this syndrome into a public health problem worldwide. The treatment for MS should be performed by different therapies that involve medical resources and lifestyle interventions. In respect to lifestyle changes, physical exercise has been indicated as an important alternative that acts directly or indirectly on all risk factors comprising the MS. Thus, the present review explores the role of systematic physical exercise practice on different risk factors for MS. Initially we focus on the effect of physical exercise on obesity, especially on the abdominal one. Subsequently the effects of physical exercise on LDL- and HDL-cholesterols and triglycerides are shown. Additionally, we presented some considerations on the benefits of exercise on blood pressure, insulin resistance and T2DM. Finally, we stated the methodological guidelines for prescription of aerobic exercise, muscular strength and flexibility for individuals with MS.