Learning Outcomes

By the end of this module, you should by able to:

Identify what metabolic syndrome is
List the risk factors required to be diagnosed with metabolic syndrome
Explain the health risks associated with a metabolic syndrome diagnosis
Provide information about heart healthy lifestyle changes to treat metabolic syndrome.  

Why do coaches need to know this?

Metabolic syndrome is a combination of risk factors that have shown to increase risk for other health concerns such as heart disease and stroke. Several of the risk factors associated with metabolic syndrome can be improved or eliminated through certain lifestyle changes. Therefore, a coach should possess the common knowledge of how these risks factors can be affected by behavioral changes and guide their clients into making heart healthy choices.

NBHWC Content Outline for Metabolic Syndrome and Health Coaching

The coach often works with clients living with chronic medical conditions, as well as those who are not yet ill, but are increasing their risk through unhealthy behavior. The coach should have a basic understanding of common chronic diseases and conditions, including hypertension, diabetes, obesity, cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, and a constellation of symptoms known as metabolic syndrome, which together place individuals at higher risk for heart disease, diabetes, stroke, and some cancers.

Outline for Module

1. Pre-Quiz
2. Readings
   • Metabolic Syndrome
   • Heart Healthy Eating
   • Healthy Weight
   • Managing Stress
   • Physical Activity
   • Quitting Smoking
3. Application – Self Awareness
4. Post-Quiz and Reflection

Additional Resources

• A Critical Examination of the Use of Trained Health Coaches to Decrease the Metabolic Syndrome for Participants of a Community-Based Diabetes Prevention and Management Program
• University of Minnesota Online Learning Modules and Resources
  • Diet and Nutrition
  • Mastering Stress
• CDC Smoking Cessation Resources