Which of the following criteria is NOT associated with metabolic syndrome?

In the context of metabolic syndrome, increased insulin sensitivity is not a criterion associated with this condition. Metabolic syndrome is defined by a cluster of risk factors that significantly increase the likelihood of cardiovascular disease and type 2 diabetes. These risk factors typically include elevated waist circumference, which indicates central obesity, elevated blood pressure, and reduced levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol, which is known as "good" cholesterol.

Increased insulin sensitivity, however, is generally a beneficial metabolic state. It means that the body effectively utilizes insulin, allowing for better control of blood sugar levels and a lower risk of developing diabetes. In contrast, metabolic syndrome is characterized by insulin resistance, where the body's cells do not respond appropriately to insulin, leading to higher insulin levels and potential elevation in blood sugar.

Thus, understanding that increased insulin sensitivity contrasts with the characteristics of metabolic syndrome clarifies why it is not included as a criterion for this syndrome.