The Metabolic Syndrome, a Human Disease by Marià Alemany reviews the complex nature of metabolic syndrome (MS) as a cluster of related but distinct pathologies, rather than a single disease. The text emphasizes the human-specific nature of MS, linking it to modern lifestyle factors such as diet, sedentary behavior, and social structures. MS is characterized by a close interdependence of its components, including inflammation, energy handling, and the role of diet in its development. The review discusses the main theories on MS's origin, focusing on hepatic steatosis, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, while also considering the differential effects of sex and its biological consequences. Inflammation is highlighted as a critical factor in MS development, influencing connective tissue and the impact of diet. The role of diet composition, including the anaplerotic maintenance of the Krebs cycle, is explored in the context of hormone regulation. The review suggests that MS may function as a unique biological control system, with implications for treatment. The text also addresses the complexity of MS, its pathologic traits, and the various mechanisms involved, including the interplay between inflammation, energy partition, and metabolic disorders. The review concludes with a discussion of the broader implications of MS, including its connection to cardiovascular diseases, the microbiome, and the challenges in effective treatment. Overall, the review underscores the human-specific nature of MS and its multifaceted relationship with modern lifestyle and environmental factors.The Metabolic Syndrome, a Human Disease by Marià Alemany reviews the complex nature of metabolic syndrome (MS) as a cluster of related but distinct pathologies, rather than a single disease. The text emphasizes the human-specific nature of MS, linking it to modern lifestyle factors such as diet, sedentary behavior, and social structures. MS is characterized by a close interdependence of its components, including inflammation, energy handling, and the role of diet in its development. The review discusses the main theories on MS's origin, focusing on hepatic steatosis, type 2 diabetes, and obesity, while also considering the differential effects of sex and its biological consequences. Inflammation is highlighted as a critical factor in MS development, influencing connective tissue and the impact of diet. The role of diet composition, including the anaplerotic maintenance of the Krebs cycle, is explored in the context of hormone regulation. The review suggests that MS may function as a unique biological control system, with implications for treatment. The text also addresses the complexity of MS, its pathologic traits, and the various mechanisms involved, including the interplay between inflammation, energy partition, and metabolic disorders. The review concludes with a discussion of the broader implications of MS, including its connection to cardiovascular diseases, the microbiome, and the challenges in effective treatment. Overall, the review underscores the human-specific nature of MS and its multifaceted relationship with modern lifestyle and environmental factors.