Nutrition and drugs

Metabolic syndrome was never a “thing” when I was a kid. I remember when my dad and mom first actually started going to the doctor for other reasons than being sick with a cold, etc.  Now it seems that everywhere we look is a disease, disorder, or degeneration of some body part!  (We are all messed up people!)  Metabolic syndrome seems to be the new concern of the middle-aged.  Please outline your understanding of the metabolic syndrome, and provide your opinion on the medical significance of the condition, once diagnosed.  Do you believe it is a big deal, or not so much?  In your discussion please include any strategy you might use to combat this condition.   Your initial comments must be at least a full solid paragraph for each question (over 50 words).