Recent statistics from Mettro Health Check reveal a worrying trend: metabolic issues such as obesity, high blood sugar, and abnormal cholesterol levels are becoming increasingly common among those under 30—levels comparable to, or even exceeding, those seen in older adults. Dr. Lin Meixiu of Mettro Health Check warns that youth does not equal health, and poor diet and lifestyle choices are pushing many young people into the high-risk zone for chronic diseases, with men being particularly affected.
Data shows that 68.2% of males under 30 are overweight or obese, approaching the rates seen in those over 60. Several metabolic markers are also concerning: 28.3% of young men show abnormal fasting blood glucose, 14% have elevated HbA1c, 10.7% have high triglycerides, 13.9% have low HDL (“good”) cholesterol, and 13.3% exhibit insulin resistance. Dr. Lin emphasizes that metabolic syndrome and obesity are no longer issues limited to middle-aged adults; unhealthy lifestyles put young people at serious risk as well.
Three main factors are driving these metabolic problems: frequent eating out, late nights or insufficient sleep, and prolonged sedentary behavior. Eating out often leads to nutritional imbalance, causing blood sugar spikes and insulin resistance; lack of sleep or late-night meals encourages fat storage; and inactivity or low muscle mass reduces metabolic rate. Dr. Lin notes that muscle is essential for regulating blood sugar, and without exercise, both glucose and fat metabolism become less efficient, creating a vicious cycle over time.
Genetics also play a role, increasing the risk for metabolic issues in young people. About 40% of those tested had elevated ApoB, indicating a natural predisposition to LDL cholesterol metabolism problems. Dr. Lin advises young adults to maintain a balanced diet—dividing meals into roughly 1/4 protein, 1/4 vegetables, 1/4 whole grains, and 1/4 fruit—reduce sitting time, increase daily activity, avoid staying up late, and schedule regular health checks to effectively prevent chronic diseases.
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