The metabolic syndrome is a serious health condition that affects about 35 percent of adults and places them at higher risk of cardiovascular disease, diabetes, stroke and diseases related to fatty buildups in artery walls. The underlying causes of metabolic syndrome are obesity, being overweight, physical inactivity and genetic factors. In recent decades, the prevalence has increased dramatically in the United States. Lifestyle interventions including dietary modification, physical activity and weight loss form the basis of treatment for these patients. However, research has shown that even when people are able to incorporate these changes, they often revert back to their usual lifestyle resulting in weight gain and continued risk for diabetes and heart disease.