Common metabolic health problems among women

Introduction

Metabolic health is defined as physical conditions that involve metabolic functions and its associated health impacts. Metabolism is the process occurring in the cells in order to get energy and remove waste products. Understanding of metabolism is the basis of improving metabolic health and prevention of metabolic health problems and its associated complications. Metabolism includes catabolism and anabolism.

Catabolism is the metabolism process of breaking large molecules of nutrients into smaller molecules in order to produce biochemical energy, adenosine triphosphate (ATP). It occurs in digestive system and human body cells. Carbohydrate, protein, and lipids are engaged catabolic metabolism through the process of glycolysis, Kreb’s cycle and citric acid cycle in mitochondria and cytosol. Examples of catabolism are oxidation of glucose or fatty acid as a source of energy. Many hormones act as signals to control catabolism [1-3]. The catabolic hormones include adrenaline, glucagon, cortisol, melatonin, hypocretin, cytokines. Catabolic exercise is any types of aerobic exercise which can burn glycogen, fat or proteins that may come from muscle.

Anabolism is the metabolic process that builds complex molecules from simpler ones. It is composed of biochemical reactions that require an input of ATP for energy. Anabolic reactions in biosynthesis use the process of condensation and reductions. Anabolic processes require hormones including insulin, steroids and cofactors including vitamins, minerals [4,5]. Examples of anabolism are: 1) simple sugars combine to form polysaccharides, 2) glycerol reacts with fatty acids to make lipids, and 3) amino acids join together to form proteins. Anabolic exercise such as weight lifting can build muscle mass and its strength. Therefore, metabolic health requires essential energy supply and expenditure for daily life activities, physical and mental health.

Women worldwide experience many metabolic health problems including obesity, hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, insulin resistance, hyperinsulinemia, and its consequences. Example of common metabolic health problems are polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), gestational diabetes mellitus (GDM), prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, hypertensive disorders, non-alcoholic fatty liver disease (NAFAD), hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Women with PCOS are more likely to have sub-infertility or infertility due to hyperandrogenism and anovulation. Women with insulin resistance experience GDM and hypertensive disorders during pregnancy. Women with a history of GDM develop prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, and metabolic syndrome in their later life. NAFLD is more common in women with overweight and obesity [5-8]. Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism are observed in women with metabolic health problems. Cardiovascular and kidney diseases are also common complications. These metabolic health problems result in shortening life expectancy among women and developing many chronic diseases leading to poor quality of life and immature death.

These manifestations are cumulative of its pathogenesis from childhood to adulthood. Therefore, metabolic health promotion should be educated and advised across the lifespan. Health literacy on dietary pattern and regular exercise is the main focus. Effective modification to avoid overconsumption of sugar, high-fructose corn syrup, trans fat and nimal fat should be clearly recommended for all in order to prevent hyperglycemia, dyslipidemia, and insulin resistance. Wisely choosing healthier foods items containing complex carbohydrate, essential amino acids, fatty acids, vitamins and antioxidants are important to maintain mitochondrial function, prevent oxidative stress, and promote anabolism. Finally, doing enjoyable exercise should be encouraged among women in order to enhance insulin sensitivity, catabolism process and metabolic health.

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