Metabolic syndrome is the clustering of at least three of the following five risk factors: elevated fasting glucose, excess waist circumference, elevated blood pressure, elevated triglycerides, and abnormal cholesterol levels. This syndrome is known to increase an individual’s risk for both cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. Korean researchers have found that men and women with low muscle mass have a greater risk for metabolic syndrome, even if they have a healthy body mass index. This study underscores the importance of remaining physically active into old age in order to maintain a healthy muscle mass.
Journal of Bone Metabolism, August 2015