Numerous supplements may help treat metabolic syndrome. According to the American Heart Association, or AHA, metabolic syndrome is a group of metabolic risk factors an individual can have that include abdominal obesity, blood fat disorders, elevated blood pressure, insulin resistance and elevated C-reactive protein in the blood. Supplements for metabolic syndrome target different symptoms. In most cases, a person with metabolic syndrome may benefit from multiple supplements. A qualified health care professional trained in clinical nutrition should be consulted before taking supplements for metabolic syndrome.
Chromium
Chromium may be an effective supplement for combating the negative health effects of metabolic syndrome. According to the University of Maryland Medical Center, or UMMC, chromium supplementation may be effective for treating high cholesterol, hypoglycemia, Type 1 and Type 2 diabetes, high triglycerides, insulin resistance syndrome, depression and obesity.
Chromium may be most effective for lowering elevated blood cholesterol--a common finding in a person with metabolic syndrome. Chromium supplementation can reduce total cholesterol and low-density lipoprotein, or LDL, cholesterol levels while increasing high-density lipoprotein cholesterol, also known as good cholesterol. A person interested in using chromium to treat metabolic syndrome should first consult with a qualified health care professional to discuss possible side effects and proper dosage.
Biotin
Biotin may be a helpful supplement for a person with metabolic syndrome. A Sept. 1, 2007, article in the journal "Functional Ingredients" states that biotin, and several other common supplements, can help improve insulin function, glucose control and other signs and symptoms associated with metabolic syndrome. Biotin is a water-soluble B vitamin that acts as a coenzyme in the metabolism of proteins, fats and carbohydrates. Biotin is important for processing glucose, or sugar, in the blood, especially for people with Type 2 diabetes or metabolic syndrome. The suggested adequate daily dose of biotin for adults over 18 years of age is 30mcg, according to the MedlinePlus website, although a person interested in taking biotin alone or in conjunction with other supplements, such as chromium, should first discuss possible side effects and proper dosage with a qualified health care professional.
Vanadium
Vanadium may be a helpful supplement for a person with metabolic syndrome. According to UMMC, vanadium is a trace mineral found in numerous foods. Vanadium, in small amounts, may be important for overall health and well-being. Vanadium may have a beneficial effect on blood sugar in people with diabetes or metabolic syndrome. Although vanadium may be helpful for people with insulin resistance, there needs to be more long-term research in humans to determine the ideal dosage and frequency of use of vanadium, states Dr. Ray Sahelian, a nutrition expert and author. Most of the studies examining vanadium have been conducted on animals. Because the effects of vanadium on humans is still unclear, and because the proper dosage for various conditions is still unknown, a person interested in taking vanadium to combat metabolic syndrome should consult a qualified health care professional about possible risks and benefits.
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