Young Athletes, Adult Health Risks
According to a new study, nearly half of collegiate offensive and defensive linemen tested had metabolic syndrome, a cluster of conditions that increase the risk of heart disease and diabetes. The symptoms include: excess belly fat; cholesterol problems (high triglycerides, low “good” HDL and high “bad” LDL); high blood pressure; and a high blood sugar level.
In the study, 70 linemen from Division I, II and III college programs were tested.
Thirty-four were found to have metabolic syndrome. Large waists and low “good” HDL were found in all but two of the 34 and all but five had high blood pressure.
Many people assume that these conditions just don’t happen in a young people, especially athletes, but based on this study, experts recommend routine screening. According to the researchers, if a male athlete’s waist measures 40 inches or more and his blood pressure is higher than 130/85, he should ideally undergo a blood test to see if his cholesterol and blood sugar are too high. If so, nutrition counseling is recommended.
Fortunately, trimming belly fat, lowering bad cholesterol, boosting good cholesterol, dialing down blood pressure and reducing blood sugar are easily accomplished through the power of healthy eating.
Here are 3 savvy strategies to help you take control now (note: it’s never too early - another recent study found that 82 percent of NFL players under age 50 had heart risks, compared to the general population of the same age).
Cut animal fat, add plant fat
-Dip bread in oil instead of slathering it with butter
-Downsize burgers and fatty steaks and go for veggie stir-frys sprinkled with nuts
-Cut back on cheese in tacos and burritos and add more guacamole
Cut salt, add spices
-Fill three quarters of the salt shaker with black pepper
-Flavor popcorn and potatoes with salt-free seasoning mixes instead of salt (like Cajun and Italian herb)
-Use fresh chopped peppers like jalapenos in place of salty hot sauces
Cut processed sugar, add natural sweets
-Buy natural peanut butter instead of the sugary kind and stir in honey
-Cut out soda and create a new concoction: mix half 100% fruit juice and half green tea
- Instead of brown sugar, sweeten oatmeal with pure maple syrup