A metabolic disorder is a malfunction of the system responsible for energy and biochemical processes. It includes, above all, various neurological diseases as well as conditions linked to impaired function of the thyroid, adrenal glands, pituitary gland and reproductive system.
The problem may lie in poor nutrition: a diet can be excessive or deficient. This affects the nervous system, which finely regulates metabolism, and changes the activity of certain centres in the brain. Where metabolism is concerned, the problem most often lies in the hypothalamus, which governs the processes of storage and building up, and the nature and speed at which energy from food is converted.
Causes of metabolic disorders include:
- Age. Metabolic disorders are most common in women. Over time, the production of female sex hormones ceases, which leads to problems with metabolic processes.
- Nervous strain. Stress is a frequent cause of metabolic disorders.
- Alcohol and tobacco misuse.
- Genetic predisposition.
- Certain past illnesses.
- Metabolic syndrome.
- Neuroendocrine disorders.
Symptoms that may indicate a metabolic disorder:
- Weight loss or weight gain;
- Loss of appetite;
- Hair problems;
- Rashes and redness;
- Fatigue and an inability to recover energy even after a good night’s sleep;
- Intestinal disease.
Treatment is fairly complex. If the condition is caused by genetic factors, treatment will be complex and require continuous medical supervision. The first step is to normalise your diet and eating pattern. It is advisable to divide food into several small portions and to reduce your intake of animal fats and carbohydrates.
It is best to begin treatment once you know the causes of the metabolic disorder. If the disorder has been triggered by severe stress, the priority is to stabilise your mental state and consult a specialist. At the first signs, see a general practitioner, who will examine you, advise you and refer you to the appropriate specialist.
Tips to help prevent metabolic disorders:
- Avoid gruelling diets.
When calorie intake drops sharply, the body starts storing fat to ensure its survival. The minimum calorie intake on a diet is at least 1,200 calories.
- Drink plenty of water.
Water helps remove waste products from the body, regulates digestion and transports nutrients.
- Reduce your sugar intake.
When food intake exceeds the body’s needs, or when too much sugar is consumed, insulin begins to accumulate and is stored as fat.
- Take contrast and cold showers.
Alternating cold and hot water acts as a thermal massage that improves blood microcirculation. This massage has a positive effect on metabolic processes.
- Make sleep a priority.
For a healthy metabolism, you need at least 8 hours of sleep a day.
Most important of all: address the condition early and avoid self-treatment. It is best to consult a doctor, who will advise you precisely on what to take in your particular case.
