Regular aerobic exercises are thought to beneficial in decreasing the risks for the development of metabolic syndrome. Exercise may benefit by helping in weight reduction that in turn increases insulin sensitivity of the liver and other tissues.

• Current guidelines suggest regular moderate-intense physical activity for at least 30 minutes continuously at least 5 days/week, ideally all days in the week.

• A recent study indicated that cardiovascular exercise was therapeutic in approximately 31% of cases. The most probable benefit was to triglyceride levels, with 43% showing improvement; conversely 91% of test subjects did not exhibit a decrease in fasting plasma glucose or insulin resistance.^[1]

Many other studies have supported the value of increased physical activity along with restricted calories in metabolic syndrome.

• Interestingly, reduction of adipose tissue by liposuction has no positive impact on the insulin sensitivity, risk factors for coronary heart disease (blood pressure, plasma glucose, insulin, and lipid concentrations) and plasma concentrations of inflammatory markers like C-reactive protein, interleukin-6, tumor necrosis factor alpha, and adiponectin. ^[2] Thus, liposuction does not have proven benefits in metabolic syndrome.