Ischemic heart disease (IHD) remains a leading cause of morbidity and mortality worldwide. Metabolic syndrome (MetS), a cluster of interrelated metabolic abnormalities including central obesity, insulin resistance, hypertension, dyslipidemia, and impaired glucose metabolism, has emerged as a major contributor to the development and progression of IHD. The presence of MetS significantly increases cardiovascular risk and worsens clinical outcomes in patients with established coronary artery disease.
We summarize current evidence on the role of metabolic syndrome in ischemic heart disease, with a focus on underlying pathophysiological mechanisms and clinical implications. Key mechanisms linking MetS to IHD include insulin resistance, endothelial dysfunction, chronic low-grade inflammation, oxidative stress, atherogenic dyslipidemia, and pro-thrombotic states, all of which promote atherosclerosis and plaque instability. In addition, emerging biomarkers such as high-sensitivity C-reactive protein (hs-CRP), lipoprotein-associated phospholipase A₂ (Lp-PLA₂), adipokines, and inflammatory cytokines provide further insight into the complex interaction between metabolic disturbances and ischemic heart disease.
Understanding the role of metabolic syndrome in IHD is essential for early risk stratification and targeted prevention strategies. Comprehensive management of metabolic syndrome components may reduce the incidence, severity, and recurrence of ischemic heart disease. This review highlights the importance of an integrated metabolic and cardiovascular approach in the prevention and management of IHD.

Background: Milk and dairy products are important sources of protein, vitamins (B2, B12), and minerals (calcium, zinc), playing a key role in maintaining normal body weight, bone structure, and overall health. However, in Mongolia, regular milk consumption among school-aged children is inadequate, and scientific evidence on its association with growth, micronutrient status, and bone health is limited. Objective : To determine the relationship between weekly milk consumption and children’s physical growth, bone softening, and serum levels of vitamin D and selected minerals. Material and Methods: A cross-sectional study was conducted in December 2024 among 453 students aged 7–12 years from six general education schools in Ulaanbaatar. Participants were classified into three groups based on weekly milk consumption: (1) non-consumers, (2) consumers at school or home, and (3) consumers at both school and home. Anthropometric measurements were obtained, and BMI z-scores were calculated using WHO growth reference standards. Blood samples were analyzed for vitamin D, calcium, magnesium, and zinc, and bone mineral density was measured. Data were analyzed using SPSS 26, applying independent t-tests, chi-square tests, and ANOVA, with p<0.05 considered statistically significant. Results: Children consuming milk regularly at both school and home had higher mean height (139 ± 8 cm) compared to non-consumers (136 ± 17 cm), though differences were not statistically significant (p=0.33). BMI was more often in the normal range among dual-site consumers (56.4%) compared to non-consumers (43.4%) (p<0.05). Vitamin D deficiency was less prevalent among dual-site consumers (47%) than in other groups (p<0.05). Magnesium (0.86±0.07 mmol/L) and zinc (18.74±2.48 μmol/L) levels were significantly higher in this group (p<0.05). Bone softening prevalence was lower among dual-site consumers (47.8%) compared to non-consumers (58.3%) (p=0.026). No significant associations were found between milk consumption and red blood cell indices. Conclusion Regular milk consumption is associated with improved BMI status, higher serum magnesium and zinc levels, and lower prevalence of bone softening among school-aged children in Ulaanbaatar. These findings support the potential role of school milk programs in enhancing child nutrition and bone health in Mongolia.