Metabolic syndrome is characterized by certain risk factors including high triglycerides, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, insulin resistance, glucose intolerance and heart disease.

So how do we lose big belly fat? Unfortunately, abdominal fat seems to be the hardest fat to lose. The culprit that causes this condition is insulin resistance and until we correct this problem the belly fat is likely to persist.

Our modern life style and food choices are a major contributor to Syndrome X. No matter how advanced our society has become we are still genetically hard wired to the lifestyle of our ancient ancestors.

In ancient times humans thrived on a nutrient dense but low carbohydrate diet and this is the kind of diet we should try to duplicate as closely as possible. We are told that our ancestors were hunter gatherers, as such they consumed meat, fish, shell fish, nuts, seeds, fruit, edible roots and plants.

Our ancestors were also more physically active in their pursuit of nourishment than we are today. Let's face it, going to the market or to a restaurant isn't much of a work out for us.

To answer the above question on just how we are going to lose that big belly and keep it off, we must first change the way we eat. Increase levels of protein, especially cold water fish like salmon, cod and tuna. Eat more fiber rich vegetables, fruits and nuts. Drink coffee or tea instead of high carb drinks like soda and beer, water would be an even better choice.

The reason insulin resistance exists is the fact that our cells have lost their insulin sensitivity. Each cell is supposed to have around 20,000 insulin receptor sites, overweight people may have as few as 5000 of these receptor sites.

These receptor sites act like a doorway for glucose to enter and provide energy for the cell to burn. The insulin opens the door for the glucose to enter, if the cells are resistant to the insulin no energy is consumed.

Without these open doorways the insulin and glucose stay in the blood stream with the potential to cause big health problems.

If you have been diagnosed with Syndrome X or believe you have it talk to your doctor about reversing this condition, because it is treatable and totally reversible.

There are several dietary supplements that are beneficial to individuals attempting to reverse this condition. Among them are chromium, L-Carnitine and maybe most importantly, essential fatty acids (EFA).

Essential fatty acids, specifically EPA (eicosapentaenoic acid) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid) are easily obtained by taking the recommended dosage of fish oil capsules, unless you are allergic to fish. Ask your doctor first if you are on a blood thinner like coumadin, EFAs will thin your blood.

EFAs work to open the insulin receptor sites and restoring insulin sensitivity.

Last but not least, increase your physical activity on a regular basis. Walking and low impact resistance exercises will help restore lost muscle mass and boost energy while burning calories.

So there you have it, to get rid of that big belly you need to increase physical activity, increase protein and vegetable matter in your diet and take some fish oil as directed every day but don't forget to talk top your doctor first, especially if you have health problems.