THE INTERPLAY BETWEEN METABOLIC FACTORS AND SKIN HEALTH

Have you come across the term "metabolic syndrome" before? Think of it as a cluster of health red flags—similar to a car's dashboard lights—alerting you about high blood pressure, elevated blood sugar, excessive waist circumference, and abnormal cholesterol levels. When these indicators light up together, it's often a sign of metabolic syndrome. But beyond these typical warning signs, metabolic syndrome can also significantly affect your skin's health. Dermatologist and axillary healthcare professionals, can spot these signs on your skin and offer you comprehensive care.

Metabolic Syndrome can develop in individuals due to genetic predispositions or lifestyle choices that impair metabolic processes. The likelihood of developing it escalates with age and is influenced by various factors, such as:

• The progression of age heightens the risk.
• Certain medical conditions, including gallstones, fatty liver disease, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and sleep apnea.
• Consumption of diets high in saturated and trans fats, as well as sugars.
• A heightened susceptibility in women.
• Genetic factors that can lead to increased insulin resistance.
• A lack of essential nutrients like carotenoids, and vitamins B, D, and E.
• Being overweight or obese.
• A personal or familial diabetes history.
• A lack of physical activity

For instance, insulin resistance, a central feature of metabolic syndrome, is linked to skin conditions like skin tags and acanthosis nigricans. These skin changes can be early signs of underlying metabolic issues.

Acanthosis nigricans is where dark, velvety patches appear on the skin, often in body folds. Although it might look like a simple skin issue, it could be signaling deeper metabolic problems, such as difficulties with insulin, which can be related to diabetes or obesity. It's like your skin is sounding an alarm about your general health.

In simpler terms, it's as if your skin starts to collect more color (pigment) in some areas, making it look darker and sometimes feel a little different when you touch it, like a little thicker or softer. While it might just seem like a cosmetic issue, it's often a sign that something inside your body needs attention. For example, it can indicate that your body is having trouble using insulin properly, which is the hormone that helps control your blood sugar levels. This can be associated with diabetes or obesity. So, it's like your skin is giving you a heads-up that you might need to take a closer look at your overall health.

Metabolic syndrome has been linked to psoriasis, an inflammatory skin condition. Psoriasis patients are at a higher risk of developing metabolic syndrome, suggesting a bidirectional relationship where each condition may exacerbate the other (Armstrong et al., 2013). This connection highlights the importance of a holistic treatment approach, addressing not only the skin lesions but also the underlying metabolic disturbances.

In clinical practice, the role of a dermatologist extends to recognizing these cutaneous markers as potential signs of metabolic imbalance. Early intervention and collaborative  management with other healthcare professionals (where I come in) can lead to better outcomes for patients with both metabolic syndrome and associated skin disorders.

Diet and lifestyle modifications are at the forefront of managing metabolic syndrome, and by extension, may improve related skin conditions. Antioxidant-rich foods and those with anti-inflammatory properties can play a pivotal role in mitigating symptoms and promoting skin health.

Overall, the correlation between metabolic health and dermatology is becoming more evident as our population becomes sicker, with significant implications for patient care. It is essential to not assume every dark patch is hyperpigmentation (an umbrella term for various pathophysiological pathways), staying informed about the metabolic factors that can influence your skin and seek out reputable care.

What can you do to kickstart your overall health?

Consider an Optimized Diet

Managing Metabolic Syndrome first requires being diagnosed by a Doctor, PA or NP, with a tailored approach based on individual metabolic concerns. Treatment often involves the use of medications to manage blood pressure (antihypertensives), blood glucose levels (metformin), and cholesterol levels (statins). A primary target in treatment is weight reduction to reach a healthy body weight. Supporting this goal are lifestyle changes such as diet adjustments, the use of certain dietary supplements, regular exercise, and getting enough sleep.

To optimize dietary intake for Metabolic Syndrome, certain eating patterns are beneficial, like the Mediterranean (MD) and Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension (DASH) diets, as well as vegetarianism. The MD particularly advises limiting processed meats. These diets share an emphasis on reducing intake of animal products.

When tailoring a diet to combat Metabolic Syndrome, it is advised to avoid:

• Diet sodas, linked to a heightened risk of Metabolic Syndrome and type 2 diabetes with regular consumption.
• Refined carbs, especially sugary drinks, which boost Metabolic Syndrome risk if consumed frequently.
• Saturated and trans fats found in fried foods and certain oils, which can deteriorate metabolic health and raise the risk of Metabolic Syndrome and cardiovascular diseases.

On the other hand, it is recommended to increase:

• Monounsaturated fats from sources like avocados, nuts, and olives, which can improve blood pressure and cholesterol.
• Polyunsaturated fats from fish, walnuts, and flax seeds, known for enhancing metabolic markers.
• Fruits and vegetables, as their low consumption is linked to Metabolic Syndrome.
• Herbs such as cinnamon, garlic, and turmeric for their antioxidant and anti-inflammatory effects.
• Whole grains, which supply fiber that can boost insulin sensitivity and decrease diabetes risk.
• Adequate protein intake, which may assist in weight management and improve cardiometabolic factors when consumed in the right proportions to body weight.

Supplements

A variety of dietary supplements may boost metabolic wellness, including compounds like bioflavonoids, berberine, chromium, and omega-3 fatty acids. 

Bioflavonoids: These plant-derived polyphenol compounds, particularly resveratrol and quercetin, show promise for metabolic health. Resveratrol, present in grapes and red wine, has been observed in clinical trials to positively affect weight, BMI, fat mass, and insulin levels when supplemented. Similarly, quercetin—an antioxidant found in berries and tea—has demonstrated potential in enhancing metabolic parameters, including waist size and blood pressure post-meal.

Berberine: This plant-based alkaloid, sourced from herbs like barberry, has been recognized in studies for its lipid-lowering and insulin-sensitizing properties. Beyond this, berberine may contribute to cardiovascular health by alleviating inflammation and improving vascular functions.

Chromium: As a mineral critical for carbohydrate and fat metabolism, chromium aids insulin action. Insufficient levels may be linked to insulin resistance. Chromium picolinate, a supplement form, is associated with better body composition and weight management outcomes.

Omega-3 Fatty Acids: EPA and DHA, omega-3s found abundantly in fish like salmon and mackerel, are known to modulate fat storage and gene expression related to fat metabolism. Supplements containing these fats can offer anti-inflammatory and heart-protective benefits comparable to those of NSAIDs.

Can be ordered here.

Physical Activity and Rest

Incorporating exercise, especially High-Intensity Interval Training (HIIT), can significantly mitigate the risks of Metabolic Syndrome . This vigorous form of workout, which intersperses periods of intense activity with intervals of lighter exercise or rest, enhances cardiorespiratory fitness and has been proven to positively impact blood pressure and reduce waistlines, as evidenced in a study where subjects engaged in HIIT thrice weekly over four months.

Prioritize Healthy Sleep Patterns

Given the link between insufficient sleep and the onset of metabolic syndrome, cultivating good sleep practices is crucial. For those suffering from sleep apnea, studies have shown that using a Continuous Positive Airway Pressure (CPAP) device for three months can lead to improvements in various Metabolic Syndrome -related health concerns, including regulation of blood pressure.

Reference:

Scheinfeld, N. (2004). Obesity and dermatology. Clinics in Dermatology, 22(4), 303-309. doi:10.1016/j.clindermatol.2004.03.004.

Armstrong, A.W., Harskamp, C.T., & Armstrong, E.J. (2013). The association between psoriasis and obesity: A systematic review and meta-analysis of observational studies. Nutrition & Diabetes, 3(12), e54. doi:10.1038/nutd.2013.42.

Disclaimer: The content of this blog post is provided solely for educational reasons and should not replace professional medical consultation or treatment. It is not advisable to use this information for diagnosing or treating health issues without the guidance of a physician. Always seek the advice of a healthcare professional before depending on the information presented in this article or on this site.